š Editorās Note
I struggle with screen time. For the past month, Iāve finally found a setup that seems to limit time on my phone:
Change the color filter to greyscale. Importantly, also use a shortcut (steps here) to toggle it on and off with three taps of the side button. I find I need the color whenever I use Google Maps navigation.
Remove all ācontentā or social media apps, including email off of the home screen. Optional if you want to delete social media apps entirely and reserve them for desktop use.*
We have a box in the kitchen where my wife and I put our phones in the box from 7-8am and 6-7pm.
Each Sunday track your average weekly screen time including the average number of pick-ups. Even better if you can find an accountability buddy to take a screenshot and share it with them. Shoutout Richard Seabrook.
It has only been a few weeks so I am not ready to declare victory. However, it has gone down about 30%.
Neal, todayās profile, also has a great recommendation around limiting screen time.
*I know these āself helpā notes can come across as self-righteous, so I would like to clarify that Iāve still kept almost all of my apps. I still need a smartphone with access to Spotify, Venmo, Slack, Mail, etc. and I use Twitter and Instagram on my desktop.
Without further adoā¦.
Why Neal?
This is another full circle. Tip Top Cocktails were recommended by Tommy Noonan when he was profiled on Rambull. Iāve since become a big fan of their product and their branding. I am partial to their Old Fashioned cocktails. I reached out to Neal to see if he would be open to a profile and he was kind enough to say yes. Thank you Tommy and Neal!
Follow Neal, @nealcohen on IG
Self-Description
Extroverted creative - I'm energized by meeting new people and finding ways we can both bring our skillset to the table for collaboration.
Nealās Recommendations
Written in his own wordsā¦
Content
Dust-to-Digital Instagram account
What started as a record label specializing in restoring & releasing Grammy-winning archival music recordings in beautiful packaging has now become a place where musical expression from all over the world is celebrated. Their account is where I turn to if I need a little inspiration or a boost in my faith in humanity.
Product
Tinned fish brand that is beautifully designed. The sourcing of their seafood is done humanely and the quality of every product of theirs that I've tried is top notch.
Digital Tools
How To Break Up With Your Phone
I'm currently working on my phone habits using a book called How To Break Up With Your Phone. The point isn't to do without a Smartphone but to be mindful about how you use it, ensuring that there's a clear intention every time you pick it up.
Well-Being
I do something called Morning Pages. I take the first opportunity I have in the day to sit down and free write for 3 pages without stopping. Old fashioned pen to paper brain dump that allows my thoughts to get sorted and filtered, giving me more clarity to start the day.
Music
I'm currently listening to this jazz drummer who lives in Chicago a whole lot while working. Propulsive beats, interesting arrangements. He's great and collaborates with some high caliber musicians.
Travel
We took a trip to Maine this past summer and it was glorious. The ability to go from lush, rugged mountaintop to beautiful cliffside scenic roads to pristine beach within 15 minutes makes for a stunning experience. Plus, the lobster pounds everywhere make for some great eating.
Plug
Tip Top Proper Cocktails is my business.
We are making authentic cocktail experiences more accessible by packaging full-proof, traditional cocktail recipes that take a simple pour over ice to enjoy.
Want to get in touch with Neal? DM him on Instagram
P.S. My friend Peter W recently told me about the Instagram account Sunday Scaries. I know I started off by talking about reducing screen time so a bit of a contradiction. However, it is a well curated account that seems to have relevant recommendations and content for 30-somethings, similar to the people I tend to profile.
On a personal note, several of my talented friends and coworkers were laid off by Microsoft Gaming this week.
If you know of any opportunities for roles in marketing, project management, live events, and/or operations please reach out to me. Iād love to connect you with them.