SDS 586: Daily Habit #10: Limit Social Media Use — with Jon Krohn

Habit Complexity

Jon Krohn explores the complexity of habits, particularly focusing on social media use. He highlights how social media platforms are designed to keep users engaged for extended periods, often at the cost of productivity and mental health. Jon references Robert Greene's book "Mastery" to emphasize how digital distractions, especially social media, can prevent deep thinking and meaningful work.

The human that depended on focused attention for its survival now becomes the distracted scanning animal, unable to think in depth.

--- Jon Krohn

Despite the downsides, Jon acknowledges that social media can offer benefits, such as staying updated with trends and maintaining connections, if used judiciously 1.

   

Habit Tools

Jon discusses various tools and strategies for managing social media usage effectively. He suggests using habit tracking tools, like the template he introduced in episode 538, to monitor and limit social media engagement. Jon personally limits himself to checking social media only once a day, logging this as a binary habit to maintain discipline.

My personal approach these days, however, is simply to limit myself to one check of social media platforms per day.

--- Jon Krohn

He also recommends using software like RescueTime or the built-in Screen Time feature on iOS to track usage and set limits, making it easier to manage and reduce overuse 1.