We can reduce smartphone-related procrastination by limiting our smartphone’s capacity to control our attention.

The simplest way to prevent smartphone distraction is not to have a smartphone. It is possible to get along just fine with a basic mobile phone or no phone at all. For most of us though, smartphones feel like a necessity. If that’s the case for you, consider trying one or more of these steps:

• Remove notifications on your phone for all but vital apps.
• When working:
  • Put your phone away in a drawer out of sight.
  • Turn your phone off.
  • Put your phone on silent.
  • Leave your phone in another room.
  • Put your phone on do not disturb or airplane mode.
• Use software that limits your use of certain apps, websites or the phone altogether when you are supposed to be working.
• Delete any apps that regularly distract you from work or that you use more than you would like.

You can help reduce your use of your smartphone by reducing your use of social media, the Internet and video games.

For most of us, smartphone procrastination is a habit that can be overcome with the same tools that help break other unwanted habits.

It can also help to treat the phone like other unwanted temptations.