The 6-foot rule for clearer mornings ☀️

Earlier this year, I spent months traveling around the world.

Hotel rooms, Airbnbs, tiny apartments… And almost every place had one thing in common:

The only outlet was right next to the bed. (or that’s what I convinced myself of)

My phone, for years, has had a strict "docking station" out of reach. It was suddenly back on the nightstand within reach.

It didn't take long for old habits to creep back in.

I'd watch something until it was way past my intended bedtime, then grab my phone first thing in the morning, sometimes before I'd even sat up!

The Result

I felt off.

My mornings started with chaos. Noise would flood my brain before I'd even brushed my teeth.

It made me realize just how important my ‘out of reach’ rule is.

The longer I go without checking my phone in the morning, the more focused and clear-headed I feel.

But when I reach for it right away? My day starts on the wrong foot.

The 6-Foot Rule

For years, I've followed this rule:

My phone stays at least 6 feet from my bed.

Just far enough that I have to physically get up if I want to use it.

It sounds almost too simple, but it's been one of the most effective digital boundaries I've set.

It’s a Common Problem

According to a report by ambitions, 71% of people sleep with their phones next to them.

And 80% of people check their phones within 15 minutes of waking up.

I’m a huge fan of anecdotal evidence a.k.a. searching reddit forums 😄

So I searched for "phone in bed," and found hundreds of people frustrated by the same thing:

"I can't stop scrolling at night"

"My sleep is wrecked"

"I wish I could just leave my phone out of reach, but I never do"

This isn't a willpower problem.

It's an environment problem.

What Changed When I Got Back

As soon as I returned from traveling, I went straight back to my 6-foot rule.

The difference was immediate:

✅ My reading habit made a comeback

✅ My bedtime was being honored

✅ My mornings felt like mine again

It's all about creating an environment that works for you, not against you.

Try This Tonight

Dock your phone at least 6 feet from your bed tonight (ideally an hour before your bedtime)

Notice how your evening feels. How your morning starts.

Next week, I’ll share simple and practical ideas to help you make the most of that hour. A screen-free evening routine can set you up to win the next day.

If you slip up, be kind to yourself. Phones are engineered for addiction.

See you next week,
George