On Monday evening, we had an inspiring Caribbean Rebels community call. Three of our rebels shared stories about their team members who, despite seeming to do everything “right,” are actually messing up quite a bit. Is something off everywhere at the same time? Why are things getting forgotten, overlooked, or just no longer appreciated? Why is nobody doing what they’re supposed to?
For years now, our smartphones have evolved into our best friends. They tell us the time, remind us of appointments, take photos, store data, send emails and WhatsApps – and in rare moments of nostalgia, we even use them to make actual phone calls. With tools like ChatGPT, our phones have become personal assistants too: booking flights, proofreading books, and generating photos out of thin air in seconds.
But all these benefits might come with a cost: a constant flood of reminders and notifications – sometimes every minute. News tickers, emails, WhatsApps, app alerts, and more. And every time that little light on your phone flashes, your brain reacts. You look at it – and usually open it. Even if you just see the preview line, your mind starts racing, wondering what it’s about.
So, what would happen if you just turned all of that off?
A new study found that turning off mobile internet on your smartphone can significantly improve your attention span – to the extent that it’s like reversing ten years of age-related cognitive decline. No joke.
The experiment was simple and effective: Participants installed an app that blocked mobile internet entirely for two to four weeks. No browser, no social media, no streaming. Only calls and SMS were allowed.
The results?
91% showed improvement in at least one cognitive area.
71% reported better mental health: fewer depressive symptoms, less stress, less anxiety – and greater life satisfaction.
And the best part? These weren’t just self-reported effects – participants also performed better on objective lab-based tests measuring focus and sustained attention.
So, what does that tell us? The problem isn’t the phone itself – it’s the mobile internet, which gives us access to social media, endless news, and streaming platforms. Without these “distraction machines,” participants automatically spent less time on their phones.
And what did they do instead? Brace yourself. Some of this might sound like ancient history: They spent more time with friends (in person!), got out into nature, read actual books, exercised, or just… did nothing. In short, they returned from the digital world to real life.
What does this mean for work life? It means your team could get back to doing what they’re truly meant to – with more focus and clarity – instead of chasing pings and the fear of missing out.
If you feel like your brain’s always in multitasking mode and you never really unwind, give it a try: Switch off your mobile internet (and maybe even your Wi-Fi at home) for a few hours or days. You’ll be amazed at how calm, clear, and focused your mind becomes – and how much more real life you start to experience again.
A cruise, by the way, is the perfect setting to do just that. And maybe you’ll be joining us on one of our upcoming cruise.
