Admit there is a problem
The first step to breaking any addiction is to admit that you have a problem. Acknowledge that you spend too much time on YouTube and that it is affecting your personal and professional life. Recognising the problem is the first step in creating an action plan to tackle it.
Create a schedule
One of the main reasons people spend too much time on YouTube is the lack of structure. To break this addiction, create a schedule for your day. Designate a specific time to watch videos and stick to it. After you have fulfilled your allocated time, turn off the app and do something else.
Use a timer
If you don’t have the willpower to stop after the scheduled time, use a timer. Set a timer to go off after the set amount of time on YouTube, and when it goes off, switch to another activity or task.
Take breaks regularly
Taking breaks, even outside your scheduled YouTube time, helps you reduce your addiction. Take a break after every 30 or 60 minutes of watching videos. Use this time to stretch or do other relaxing activities, such as reading a book, meditating or going for a walk.
Unsubscribe from channels that encourage you to procrastinate
Part of breaking an addiction to YouTube is to reduce the number of channels that you subscribe to. Remove any channel that provides videos that distract or procrastinate.
Find alternative hobbies
One of the reasons people are addicted to YouTube is that they have nothing else to do. Start by finding alternative hobbies or interests that you enjoy. Try reading, cooking, or picking up a new hobby like photography or painting.
Limit YouTube on mobile devices
Mobile devices are a popular way to access YouTube, and they often lead to continuous scrolling. To reduce your addiction, limit the amount of time that you spend on YouTube via mobile. Alternatively, remove the app from your phone or block the app after the scheduled time.
Create a “Daily Goals” list
Create a list of daily goals that define what you want to achieve in a day. This list keeps you focused on tasks while reducing the time you spend on YouTube.
Make a conscious effort to reduce the time spent
Being conscious of the time you spend on YouTube and making a conscious effort to reduce it helps. When you feel like opening YouTube out of habit, do something else, like talking to a friend or stepping outside.
In conclusion, breaking the addiction to YouTube takes effort and determination. The key is to acknowledge the problem and create a plan to tackle it. Follow these steps, and soon you will have more time to spend on the things that matter in your life.