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How to block apps

How to block apps

Open an app “for a second,” lose an hour. The Attention Cartel designed it that way. Blocking apps isn’t optional. It’s how you take your mind back.

Aug 12, 2025

2 min read

Social Media Apps Are Evil Cover
Social Media Apps Are Evil Cover

Why Block Apps at All?

You can’t out-willpower a billion-dollar algorithm.
Social media platforms and addictive games are engineered to exploit your psychology — not support your goals.

Blocking apps does more than cut screen time. It:

  • Breaks the dopamine loop that keeps you checking

  • Creates mental space for deep work

  • Restores control over your schedule

  • Lowers anxiety and distraction fatigue

This isn’t about being anti-tech. It’s about using tech on your terms.

How to Block Apps on iPhone

Option 1: iOS Screen Time (Built-in)

  1. Open SettingsScreen Time.

  2. Tap App Limits.

  3. Choose the category or specific app you want to limit.

  4. Set your daily limit and tap Add.

Option 2: Monk (Smarter Control)
iOS Screen Time works, but it’s easy to bypass — you can turn it off in seconds.
Monk goes further:

  • Smart Locking: Blocks chosen apps during focus hours

  • One-Tap Block: Instantly shut down distractions

  • Custom Schedules: Align blocks with your deep work windows

Pro Tips for Blocking Apps

  • Start with your biggest time drains — usually social media or games.

  • Pair blocking with a replacement habit (reading, walking, gym).

  • Use a “Digital Sunset” — block at night to improve sleep.

  • Make it frictionless — one tap to block, no complicated setup.

Your Focus Is Your Freedom

The Attention Cartel will keep upgrading their traps. That’s their job.
Your job is to build defenses that protect your attention at all costs.

Monk was built for this - a clean, frictionless weapon against distraction. With one tap, you can block any app, shut down brainrot, and step back into control.

Reclaim your time. Block the noise. Enter Monk Mode.