Time-Sensitive Notifications

One of the first steps I took after acquiring my Apple Watch was to disable nearly all notifications. I wanted to avoid the constant urge to check my watch for every minor update in my digital life.

I only kept notifications for a select few apps that I deemed time-sensitive:

1. Apple Calendar
2. TickTick
3. Timer
4. Apple Workout
5. Apple Wallet
6. Zero

These apps are essential for maintaining a healthy and productive lifestyle.

Reducing Overall Screen Time

The Apple Watch has significantly reduced my screen time across all devices. Instead of pulling out my phone or iPad for quick checks—like calendar events, tasks for the day, habits, weather, or transit information—I can simply glance at my wrist.

Smartphones and tablets often lead to endless distractions; however, the compact size of the Apple Watch and its limited app availability help me stay focused. I get the information I need without getting sidetracked.

Brain Dump with Siri

Throughout the day, numerous thoughts and ideas pop into my mind. Before owning an Apple Watch, I would either reach for my phone to jot them down in my Notes app or write them on paper to digitize later. Unfortunately, many ideas would slip away due to the friction in this process.

The Apple Watch changed this dynamic. Now, I can simply raise my wrist and tell Siri to add my thoughts to my inbox. It’s quick and effortless—no sorting or tagging required. Later, when I review my tasks in TickTick, I can organize those ideas.

Quick Reminders

In addition to capturing random thoughts, I often need to remind myself of specific tasks. Siri on the Apple Watch excels in this area as well. I can ask Siri to remind me about something at a certain time, and I’ve noticed a marked improvement in my organizational skills since integrating this into my routine.

Calendar Events

I regularly consult my calendar to gauge upcoming events and meetings, which allows me to adjust my schedule as needed for focused work time. The calendar complication on my watch provides this information efficiently, and the digital crown makes it enjoyable to navigate through events.

This feature further eliminates the need for frequent phone usage, further reducing my screen time.

TickTick Tasks

TickTick serves as my task manager, and previously, accessing it meant reaching for my phone—my most frequent phone use. The Apple Watch has transformed this habit.

With a handy complication that displays my remaining tasks for the day, I can quickly glance at what’s due. If I need more details, I can simply tap the complication and scroll through my tasks using the digital crown.

This setup is both efficient and satisfying.

Intermittent Fasting

For the last few months, I've committed to intermittent fasting, typically eating between 10 AM and 6 PM, using the Zero app to track my sessions.

Zero features a convenient complication that visually displays a “ring,” indicating how long I’ve been fasting and how much time remains. If I tap it, I can view a detailed breakdown of my fasting schedule. I can also start or end fasts directly from my watch, making it one of my key uses for the device.

Since I prefer not to receive notifications from Zero, the app uses subtle haptic feedback to signal when to start or stop my fast, allowing me to track my sessions efficiently.

Quick Timer

Setting quick timers on my Apple Watch is a breeze with Siri. Alternatively, I can use a complication to do so discreetly in public.

Common uses for timers include:

• Starting or ending reading sessions
• Cooking timers
• Timing YouTube videos or gaming sessions

Pomodoro Timers

In a previous post, I shared how I utilize TickTick as a Pomodoro or focus timer. The Apple Watch app allows me to monitor and manage this timer seamlessly, making it particularly useful during deep work sessions when I prefer not to check the remaining time.

Apple Pay

This feature has been revolutionary for me! When I'm out, I often leave my phone in the car. Apple Pay allows me to make quick purchases using my watch at most stores.

This saves me the hassle of retrieving my wallet or phone, making the checkout process incredibly quick.

Smart Home Control

Many of my smart home devices are compatible with Apple’s HomeKit. I can manage all lights, door sensors, alarms, and cameras directly from my watch. Furthermore, Apple Home provides haptic feedback for important events, such as someone at the door or forgetting to turn off lights.

This functionality allows me to control various devices without needing to reach for my phone or get up, saving me valuable time.

Quickly Switch Focus Modes

I frequently adjust my focus modes throughout the day, whether it’s for workouts, deep work, cooking, or relaxing with friends. Each mode has tailored home screen layouts, app access, and notification settings.

Switching between modes can be done from any Apple device, but being able to do it from my watch minimizes distractions and takes only a moment.

Going Out Without My Phone

I've significantly reduced the places I take my phone—grocery shopping, movie theaters, gyms, and even during evening runs. The Apple Watch provides access to everything I might need: calls, texts, maps, calendar, TickTick tasks, and health apps for workouts, right on my wrist.

This means I carry one less item, which aligns perfectly with my minimalist philosophy. It’s liberating to be out without a phone, allowing me to be more present with friends and family.

Best of Both Worlds

The Apple Watch strikes a perfect balance between my digital and physical existence. As you may have gathered, I enjoy using technology to enhance my life.

Yet, I also recognize the potential for technology to distract and undermine productivity and mindfulness. The Apple Watch enables me to manage my digital life swiftly without encroaching on my real-world interactions.

Ultimately, how the Apple Watch influences your life depends on your choices—it can serve as a versatile tool or become a source of distraction.