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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
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)
Open Settings → Screen Time.
Tap App Limits.
Choose the category or specific app you want to limit.
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.