Why I Avoid My Phone in the AM

I started a new habit in the last couple of weeks that has really helped me stay focused and alert throughout my entire day. 

I don't check my phone in the morning. 

I wish I could say it was an easy habit to set...but it's not. I didn't realize the nervous tick I had to check stuff on my phone until I gave it up. 

Now, that's not to say I'm anti-technology in the mornings. I'm just limiting the amount of random content I consume. Here's where my morning habits have changed:

• I use my Fitbit for my alarm instead of my phone. 
• Read analog books; I used to use YouVersion for a morning devotional but limit that to a real tangible Bible just for the AM. 
• Use my Amazon Echo for weather and traffic updates. I'll also turn on the local news when Campbell isn't watching Clifford the Big Red Dog. 
• Use the GPS on my Fitbit Ionic to track runs (when I actually do get out and run)
• Avoid all social media

I will use my phone for two things: podcasts and occasionally looking at saved articles in Pocket. That's about it. 

The days where I do follow this new habit, my head is clearer. I'm more focused. I don't go down random internet rabbit holes. My GSD meter is super high. 

I think there's something to be said about having a distraction-free start to the day. I'm not perfect about it (it's a hard habit!) and there are times where I need the early morning time to catch up on email. Still, I'm avoiding social and only working out of my inbox. 

What about your morning routines? Have you added value to your day by eliminating something from it?

Photo by George Morgan on Unsplash