Put the Phone Down: Be Present, Be Whole

I found myself distracted

I changed the setting on my cell phone to flash with notifications because I am not always able to hear it. My brain has established a relationship with the cell phone that I plan to end. I will not allow my cellphone to interrupt my journey towards wholeness. Excessive smartphone use is associated with psychiatric, cognitive, emotional, medical and brain changes that should be considered by health and education professionals. nih.gov

Wholeness is possible, according to 2 Timothy 3:17 That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.

In today’s fast-paced world, our cell phones have become an extension of ourselves. We use them to communicate, work, entertain, and even seek comfort. But at what cost? How often do we find ourselves interrupted mid-prayer, stepping out of the tub dripping wet, or halting deep, meaningful conversations just to check a notification? How many meetings, meals, and moments have been stolen by the glow of a screen?

The Distraction That Controls Us

We live in a time where the ding of a phone dictates our movements more than our own priorities. A call, text, or alert can pull us away from what truly matters—our faith, family, relationships, and personal well-being. What starts as a “quick check” turns into minutes lost, opportunities missed, and connections weakened.

Have you ever found yourself:

• Pausing prayer because of an incoming call?

• Stopping an important conversation to read a message?

• Leaving the tub in a rush just to answer the phone?

• Losing focus in a meeting because of notifications?

These seemingly small moments add up, pulling us away from being fully present in our lives.

The Power of Being Present

Imagine a life where you are truly engaged in each moment—where prayer is uninterrupted, conversations are rich, and you give your full attention to the people and tasks in front of you. This is what it means to be whole.

When we put the phone down, we: 

✅ Honor sacred moments of prayer and reflection. 

✅ Deepen relationships by listening fully. 

✅ Maintain focus during meetings and important discussions. 

✅ Prioritize self-care without digital interruptions.

The Encouraging Wholeness, Leave the Phone Alone

It's time to take control and be intentional about our presence. Here are some practical steps:

• Set Boundaries – Silence your phone during prayer, meals, and meetings.

• Create Phone-Free Zones – Keep your phone out of the bedroom, bathroom, and dining areas.

• Schedule Digital Detox Periods – Take a break from screens and reconnect with yourself and others.

• Prioritize Real Interactions – Give the people in front of you your undivided attention.

• Use “Do Not Disturb” Mode – Let technology work for you, not against you.

Let’s commit to being whole by leaving the phone alone. The world won’t end if we don’t answer immediately, but we might miss out on the moments that truly matter.

Are you ready to reclaim your time and presence? Try it today—put the phone down and step into the fullness of your life.

#BePresent #LeaveThePhoneAlone #BeWhole #MindfulLiving #BeWholeWithNekohl