Today’s smartphones are remarkable devices that can add real value to one’s life. But if mismanaged, smartphones can be a productivity killer. Consider the following best productivity practices to have your phone work for you and not against you. Configure your phone using the following guidance:
- Turn off all but the most essential service notification capabilities and disable associated banners.
- Move addictive social media applications like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and the like to a second or third access screen. Note: The notifications for these applications do not qualify as essential for any person serious about productivity. If you enjoy these applications, pick a time of day to explore these inputs without disrupting your workflow.
- Disable application review requests. Let others invest their lives in application feedback and surveys. Your time is too precious.
- Set up and turn on the Do Not Disturb feature, especially during sleeping hours. And yes, you can select what persons might be allowed to call/text you during these timeframes.
- Reduce your phone’s visual allure; select a plain backdrop or wallpaper for your phone.
- Make it quick and easy to find specific applications and services when needed. Carefully organize your applications using multiple screens and bundling. Place the most readily needed applications on the main screen. Put very infrequently used applications on the third screen. Bundle similar applications, e.g., airline applications, in an appropriately named folder.
- Reduce the time to find and use your camera feature. Place the camera application on the dock at the bottom of your home screen.