Control
One of the books I recommend anyone to read is “The Shallows” by Nicholas Carr. It’s a disturbing read on the impact of the internet on our brains. It highlights how the introduction of the technologey has been leading to shallow thinking, reduced focus and wellbeing.
Inspired by the book, I wanted to build a tool that could promote more purposeful internet usage. A popular method to reduce mindless browsing the internet is website blocking.
During periods in my life when I felt the need for such intervention, I remember website blocking as a punitive and frustrating method. It gives you a hard “NO” when trying to reach your dopamine haven.
It felt bad, like a little kid getting a rejection from their parent. And while it can be effective, it’s not a pleasant experience to go through.
A New Gate
Addictive platforms can provide meaningful value if we use them when we really need to - and yet, we tend to quickly get lost in endless scrolling, forgetting why we entered the website in the first place.
If we can set the intention of visiting a website just before we enter it - that could potentially reduce the risk of mindless usage.
Set by this simple idea, I started to building a browser extension - called Control.
Instead of just blocking websites outright, Control acts as an “intention gate.” When you try to visit a controlled site, it asks: “What’s the purpose of your visit?”.
I came up with 4 categories to answer that question.
- 🔨 Productivity - work or creative stuff
- ℹ️ Information - reading and learning
- 👬 Socialize - checking up with friends or connecting with others
- 🧬 Dopamine - entertainment, quick gratification, or mindless scrolling
After selecting a category, users set a session length. For “Socialize” and “Dopamine” categories, there’s an additional prompt:
- Socialize: With whom will you socialize?
- Dopamine: What will you get from your visit?
These extra steps encourage another reflection on the purpose and value of the visit.
Once you enter the site, a timer displays at the bottom of the screen, serving as a reminder that you’re here on a mission.
Design
I wanted the design to avoid the stressful feeling that website blockers tend to have. I aimed for the extension to be inviting and enjoyable to use. The colorful elements and funky animations make it almost feel like a game.
Conclusion
I had to stop developing Control due to a new client work. I still think it’s a great idea and hope to get back to it one day.