43. The little red dot

We’re all obsessed with the little red dots on our screens. The small circle on the corner of our apps that that triggers so much excitement and anxiety at the same time.

The function was harmless and valuable at the start. To notify us of incoming messages and inform us of important updates. But soon, companies started abusing it and we became hooked to it.

I’ve started paying attention to how I react to the red dots. Without even thinking about it, without being fully aware of my action, without giving a 100% consent, my hands will instinctively reach out as the red dot pops. I acted like a dog that fetches a flying stick without even knowing why.

I want to take back control of my attention from people and corporates that constantly try to steal it. That’s why I’ve turned off most of notifications on my phone. I will check my phone when I want to, not because I was swayed to. I want to be fully in charge of what I channel my precious attention to so I will always be present and doing things that matter.

Most replies can wait. Most Facebook updates are not important. Most news is useless. Our focus, ho, is priceless.

Don’t be a slave to that little red dot.