How I’m Cutting Screen Time & Embracing Spring Routines (With Pottery & 5Ks)
Spring has officially arrived, and with it, a much-needed reset. I’ve been trading screen time for sunshine, swapping scrolling for running, and spending more time getting my hands dirty—in clay. If you’re looking for realistic ways to reduce your screen time, build new routines, or try something creative like pottery, read on.
Screen Time Check-In: Aiming for Progress, Not Perfection
This week, I averaged 5 hours of screen time per day. Better than before, but there’s room to improve. Most of that time went into YouTube, Reddit, and Instagram. (Why was I watching a 45-minute documentary on cheese production? Good question.)
Reddit, especially, is on the chopping block—nothing but endless rabbit holes. Next week’s goal: more real rabbits, fewer digital ones. Progress, not perfection.
Okay, onto the fun stuff:
Sunday Self-Care and Digital Detox Goals
Sunday was cozy self-care mode. Naps, sun, and a little outdoor playtime with my dog. It was also my worst day for screen time (surprise!). I’m now on a mission to find higher-quality laziness. Less doomscrolling, more intentional loafing—ideally offline.
Monday Wins: Running, Not Scrolling
Monday marked the end of my 8-week 5K training plan. I shaved 40 seconds off my mile time—now at 10:23. Not blazing fast, but a personal win! I’ve started a new plan with a goal of getting under 10 minutes. If you’re working on a spring running goal, I see you!
Decluttering on Tuesday: Mental & Physical Space
A cleaning frenzy took over Tuesday. I sold an extra dog crate and made serious progress on decluttering—both physical space and mental clutter. Less stuff, less screen time, more calm.
Midweek Rituals: Low-Key Date Nights & Healthy Recipes
Wednesday was date night—Cava takeout and a deep dive into healthy-ish recipes via YouTube. It’s our favorite low-effort, high-reward midweek ritual.
Thursday Energy: Espresso, Obedience Training & New Routines
Thursday was powered by triple-shot espresso. I kicked off a new running plan, took my dog to his first obedience class (he crushed it!), and got excited about the idea of dog sports. Productive, fulfilling, and—bonus—mostly screen-free.
Friday’s Pivot: Pilates & Trader Joe’s Finds
When plans fell through Friday, I pivoted to Pilates and a Trader Joe’s run. The shrimp scampi and calamari? Not great. But the cookie butter ice cream? Life-changing. Small joys matter.
Saturday in the Studio: Pottery as a Screen-Free Hobby
Saturday was spent at the pottery studio. I trimmed cylinders and tried throwing oil cruets for the first time (we’re getting fancy!). Pottery has become one of my favorite screen-free hobbies—a mindful, messy antidote to modern tech overload.
Have you ever wanted to try pottery? Check out this post to learn how!
Final Thoughts: A Work in Progress
This week, I saw a clear downward trend in my screen time (yay!). Sunday through Tuesday still needs work, but I’m proud of the shift. If you’re looking to cut screen time and build better spring habits, try this: go outside, start a project, or pick up something creative like pottery or running. Your brain will thank you.
