Google’s Ex-Chief Recommends the Ultimate Focus Hack: Unplug.

In today’s hyper-connected world, the constant buzz, ping, and vibration of our smartphones often leave us feeling overwhelmed and distracted. But Eric Schmidt, former CEO of Google, recently reignited a conversation that’s been brewing quietly in productivity circles: one of the simplest and most powerful ways to boost focus is to turn off your phone. Yes — just power it down.

This idea isn’t groundbreaking in theory, but in practice, it’s revolutionary. Phones are no longer just devices — they’re our alarm clocks, social hubs, news feeds, and entertainment centers. We’ve grown accustomed to checking them reflexively, sometimes hundreds of times a day, often without realizing it. Schmidt argues that this kind of fragmented attention is a major barrier to deep thinking and meaningful work.

What happens when you shut it off? At first, probably anxiety. Then — quiet. Clarity. Focus.

Turning off your phone doesn’t mean disconnecting forever. It’s about reclaiming control of your attention. You can start with 30 minutes of no-phone time during tasks that require concentration. Maybe it’s reading a book, brainstorming a project, or simply enjoying dinner without the digital noise.

The message is simple: your attention is your most valuable asset. And if a former tech CEO — one who helped shape the digital age — suggests stepping away from the very tech he once championed, it might be worth considering.

So next time you're feeling scattered, try this: power down your phone and power up your focus. You might be surprised by how much more you can get done — and how much more present you feel.