In today’s fast-paced world, smartphones have become an extension of ourselves. But beneath their convenience lies a powerful source of distraction, time-wasting, and even temptation. Are we truly in control, or have we become slaves to our devices, letting them dictate our lives and hearts?
The hard truth?
If we don’t establish control over our smartphone usage, it could distance us from our responsibilities, loved ones, and even our connection to Allah.
But there's a way forward: with intentional steps, we can reclaim our time, set firm boundaries, and lead a life of productivity, purpose, and spiritual fulfilment. So it’s about time you set for yourself some principles to break the chains and make your phone work for you, and not against you:
1. Use Your Phone Only When You Need It
Do you genuinely need to be on your phone right now?
For most of us, reaching for our phones has become a reflex rather than a necessity. This constant connection eats into moments for reflection, prayer, and quality time with loved ones.
Start leaving your phone outside the Masjid to stay fully present in prayer, or set clear rules about when you’ll check messages. Taking control over your device can remind others that nobody is available 24/7—setting healthier expectations for calls and messages.
2. Step Back When It Interferes with Responsibilities
When our phones distract us from work, delay our prayers, or sidetrack us from meaningful tasks, it’s time to set limits. Using screen time monitors or app timers can help us track and restrict usage. Remember, our first obligations are to Allah and those around us.
3. Stop Throwing Away Time and Money
We often waste hours scrolling through endless feeds or spending on new phone upgrades that don’t add real value. Why pay for what doesn’t serve you? Consider downgrading to a simpler device, or even asking family for support if phone usage feels hard to control.
4. Avoid the Pull Towards Harām
Is your phone leading you into actions that harm your faith? Shaytan’s traps often come disguised as harmless scrolling or browsing. Set up parental controls, restrict access, or even leave your phone out of reach at night to limit unnecessary exposure. And if temptation persists, switching to a basic phone can be a powerful step to help keep you focused.
5. Streamline Your Communication Apps
Do you really need ten different communication apps? These apps are designed to monopolise your attention and can easily lead to interactions that are out of line with Islamic values. Limit yourself to one app that fulfils your needs. If you face challenges with communication, especially with the opposite gender, invite family members to guide and monitor conversations.
6. Prioritise Your Physical and Mental Health
Your phone doesn’t just drain your time; it can also harm your body and mind. Blue light strains our eyes, but using a blue light filter can help. Mentally, the constant ping of notifications disrupts our peace. Set notifications to essential apps only, and reclaim your sense of calm and focus. Implement blue light filters or limit screen brightness, particularly at night.
If you find yourself checking notifications compulsively, consider disabling non-essential ones altogether. Every notification represents a micro-interruption that can add up, leaving you drained. Reduce your mental load by limiting phone use after evening prayers; this helps you wind down naturally and improves sleep quality.
7. Guard Against Misinformation
In an age of instant news, we must be cautious of misinformation and harmful ideologies. As Muslims, it’s our responsibility to verify sources and avoid spreading falsehood. The Prophet (ﷺ) emphasised truthfulness in every aspect of life, which includes the online world.
Make it a rule to check reputable sources before sharing any news or information. This habit ensures that our contributions to online discussions uphold truthfulness, benefiting us in both this life and the hereafter.
8. Reconnect with Family
The moments we lose with family due to smartphone distractions can never be reclaimed. Make an effort to disconnect from screens and reconnect with those you love. These moments bring fulfilment and deepen bonds.
Set aside specific times in the day or week as “phone-free” zones to fully focus on family activities. Use this time to listen, talk, and reconnect. Simple steps like keeping phones out of reach during meals can help us engage more meaningfully with those around us, building bonds that bring lasting contentment.
9. Set Sensible Boundaries for Children
Children are highly susceptible to the harms of digital overload. Setting boundaries and guiding them in responsible phone use is a duty every parent should prioritise.
Establish daily screen time limits for children and encourage alternative activities like reading, outdoor play, or creative hobbies. Show by example—if they see you managing your phone usage well, they’re more likely to follow suit. And always supervise their internet activity, ensuring their online experience is safe and positive.
Principles for Managing Smartphone Usage
- Seek Allah’s Help: Start by asking Allah for the strength to overcome bad habits.
- Acknowledge the Problem: Be honest with yourself about how your phone impacts your life.
- Set Realistic Expectations: Establish boundaries for when and where phone use is needed.
- Reduce the Unnecessary: Limit apps, notifications, and costly upgrades.
- Control Your Settings: Tailor your phone to serve you, not enslave you.
- Consider Alternatives: Tools like smartwatches can help you stay connected with fewer distractions.
While technology is inescapable, with discipline, wisdom, and faith, we can ensure our phones serve us rather than consume us.
Ready to take back control of your smartphone before it controls you?
Discover how to reclaim your focus and freedom with AMAU Academy’s course “How to Get Control of Your Mobile Phone”. This course isn’t just about limiting screen time—but about learning strategies to overcome digital distractions, set clear boundaries, and bring your device under your command. It’s time to master your phone and live with intention.
Enrol now and make your smartphone a tool that strengthens your life, not one that steals it.