It’s an app that you can use to block certain apps on your phone that has helped me greatly decrease my social media time without quitting cold turkey (though I’m trying to do that too, recently). I have it set so that I can only open instagram 7 times a day in 5 minute increments. I spend much less time doomscrolling but can still look at things my friends have sent me, etc.
Jan 21, 2025
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In general I'm kinda skeptical of apps which block you from using other apps for a couple different reasons BUT I've been trying out screenzen for past few days and it works pretty well! I like that it's customisable and that you can choose whether you'll hard block or soft block apps on your phone, and I know it won't work for everyone but the 5 seconds timer before opening apps really works for me because I find most of my screen time comes from unconsciously clicking on Instagram while I do stuff.
it also has the option to block specific websites and specifically the reels/shorts/short form videos on apps which seems super useful e.g. if you still wanna message on Instagram but not scroll. That being said, I don't use that feature because the permissions to let it control my phone and see everything freak me out a little lmaooo BUT ANYWAY it is a cool feature if you don't mind giving that permission
my screen time is down from likeee around 8 hours to 2½ish so :) (that's a little embarrassing to admit) (but also like 45mins ish are practical apps like my bus ticket app and Spotify and work chat thingy SO)
Feb 1, 2025
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this app has changed my life it’s the only thing that’s legitimately worked for controlling my screen time
essentially it lets you assign time limits to certain apps, as well as a limit on how many times a day you can open them. for instance, my limits for instagram are ten times a day, for ten minutes at a time.
the apps are locked by default which forces you to be more intentional every time you do open it.
highly recommend, i’ve been using for almost a month and my screen time is down by HALF!!!
Sep 26, 2024
It’s free (they recommend for a one-time tip) and it can help you break the mindless habit of using your phone as an escape. Because half the time I tap Instagram, it’s out of muscle memory and not for any good reason.
Nov 16, 2024
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Vibes of 90s dance music. It’s been stuck in my head for ages
Jan 24, 2025
Jan 20, 2025
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I’m usually terrible at going to bed on time and thus getting up early enough to have a relaxing morning, but the last couple days I’ve been getting up early enough to have a cup of tea and sit on the couch and listen to music before anyone else in the house gets up. It’s nice to have a little space to breathe before rushing off to wherever. Probably won’t last as a habit, but it’s nice for now :)
Jan 25, 2025