Have you ever looked up after a doom-scrolling session and wondered where the time went? This happens to me far too often, even while watching YouTube. I’ll catch myself thinking I’ve been productive, only to realize that I’ve made zero progress on my actual projects.

I’ve come to a realization: you have to go into the cave and do the work like Batman.

Make your game. Now.

Why You Need to Quit Social Media

A few years back, I took Cal Newport’s advice, quit social media, and embraced deep work. The results were immediate—it helped me learn the fundamentals of Unity and Unreal Engine for my coding projects.

But then the world changed. After the pandemic and the rise of TikTok, things haven’t been the same. I feel like more people are addicted to these apps than ever before, and productivity is in decline. If you’re in game development, this is dangerous. You will seriously fall behind someone who isn’t wasting hours on short-form content.

Deep work is essential for intellectual, knowledge-based work. Every time I find myself scrolling, I have a sinking feeling that someone else—my competitor—is working while I am wasting time.

My golden rule? Don’t open social media in the morning. It zaps your energy before you even start.

The Content Creation Grind

I tried to focus on my game again this year, but I got distracted by YouTube creation. This was a split focus I regret. Platforms like YouTube and Instagram feel like lousy partners in my creative journey. YouTube used to be great, but now it feels like it has morphed into a TikTok clone, prioritizing shorts over substance.

It would be great to offload video creation to someone else eventually, but I must admit—learning the process at a surface level has been fun. Still, it has only made me stronger in my resolve to practice deep work and reject the fear of missing out (FOMO).

How I’m Doing It Now

I’ve implemented a strict digital diet. I restrict YouTube to the desktop browser only (no mobile app) and designate specific days to check social media. I’ve even turned off notifications for Slack and Discord groups. I only check them when I’m doing my dedicated email time.

The Waterfall Strategy

You need a system. I’ve found that a modified Waterfall Method—focusing on sequential processes—works best to reach a final result. Don’t just wander aimlessly. Map out a clear sequence of steps to get to the end goal.

Instead of staring at a blank screen, write a simple checklist of exactly what you are going to do. Life gets in the way, so preplanning is crucial. I set up dedicated time blocks—1.5 hours is the max—and use a list to stay on track.

Here is my basic checklist format:

• Check the code for a specific bug or component.
• Work on 1 art piece (and only that piece).
• Review the next milestone.

Don’t deviate. This focus is why the Waterfall method works. It removes the decision paralysis of “What should I do next?”

The AI Distraction

I also have to address the AI issue. While AI is a fantastic tool, it can be a massive distraction.

Right now, AI forces multi-tasking. You have to constantly switch between different agents, windows, and apps to check outputs. To use it effectively, you have to take it step-by-step. Most importantly, do not outsource the initial thinking to AI. You can use it to fill in gaps or generate assets, but the overarching design and logic are still yours.

Summary and Action Steps

If you want to make progress, you have to stop the noise.

Build: Go make your game.

Quit the scroll: Remove the apps from your phone.

Plan your block: Write down a checklist of tasks.

Focus: Work for 1.5 hours without interruption.

YouTube Fast Forward My Game:

Links and Media

If you need motivation, watch Cal Newport discuss the pitfalls of doom scrolling and the power of deep work:

Post was written by me edited by AI.