Focus hack: Disable short form reels and videos

If you clicked on this link, you probably already know why someone would want to disable short-form videos on YouTube and Instagram.

Reason # 1: It’s evil by design. These videos are designed to loop you into addiction. Don’t believe me? Do some research, and you will find out.

Reason # 2: Social Media platforms don’t give any way for you to opt out of these videos. I tried searching multiple times, but could never find one. Not even to the paid users.

Reason # 3: Doom scrolling is a modern-day trap and is dangerous for your overall focus and memory retention. You don’t even retain 5% of what you consume for hours.

So, how to do it?

1. YouTube:
   • Uninstall the app.
   • Install Brave Browser (on your phone)
   • Change settings as described here.
   • Use YouTube in Brave Browser (on your phone)
2. Instagram:
   • Uninstall the app.
   • Consume the app via desktop mode (it’s 10x harder to waste time in desktop mode).

I did this for a week, and I see immense improvement in the focus as well as retention of whatever I just watch. Brave Browser is a KING. It is like an anti-bullshitter against all these apps that are designed to trick you.

Modern social media is EVIL. We have to fight it consciously.