The Accountability Buddy

Make screen-time change social and supportive by pairing up with a buddy and checking in regularly.

🌟 Positive Impact

High screen time often feels isolating. Even if we’re “connected” online, endless highlight reels can distance us from real connection. A buddy turns change into a shared, motivating experience.

🔬 Why it Works

Research confirms the power of accountability:

• • 65% more likely to commit to a goal with a buddy (Source: American Society of Training and Development, 2018)

• • 95% success rate when people schedule regular check-ins with an accountability partner (ASTD study, reported by The Guardian)

• • 52% of people say reducing screen time improves their mental health (Common Sense Media, 2022)

• • 70% of users stick to new digital wellbeing habits longer when they share them socially (Digital Wellbeing Lab Survey, 2023)

🛠 How to Apply

1. 1. Find your partner: Choose a friend, colleague, or family member who also wants healthier screen habits.

1. 1. Set shared goals: Define daily/weekly targets (e.g., 2 hours less scrolling, no phone during meals).

1. 1. Check in often: Schedule quick touchpoints (calls, chats, or in-app features) to stay accountable.

1. 1. Make it fun: Celebrate wins, add friendly competition if it helps, or focus on encouragement.

📋 Methodology

• • Start with one small, realistic change

• • Agree on check-in cadence and channel

• • Track progress together (weekly summary/screenshots)

💡 Attentive Tip

Accountability makes screen-time change a positive social ritual—easier, more engaging, and more sustainable. Try it now with Attentive on the App Store.

⚙️ Helpful Tools

• • Attentive — Accountability Partner

• • Shared reminders/calendar

• • Chat check-ins

🏆 Master Mode

Once you’ve built the basics, step into Master Mode with these advanced challenges:

• • Full Digital Fast: Go one full day per month completely offline. Experience how clarity and focus return without constant pings.

• • Phone-Free Bedroom: Remove your phone from the bedroom. Use an analog clock and reclaim better rest and morning focus.

• • Accountability Pact+: Agree with your buddy on high-stakes goals — a reward if you stay under limits, or a playful penalty if you don’t.

Master Mode is about proving to yourself that you’re in control — not your phone.

❓ FAQ

How often should we check in? Weekly is a good baseline; daily works well for short challenges. What if I don’t like competition? Skip the leaderboard—focus on encouragement and shared milestones.

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🔗 Related Practices

• The Commitment Method 🤝
• The Celebration Method
• The Gamification Method