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How do I get started with Roots?
How do I get started with Roots?
Updated over a week ago

Make sure you are set up to get the most out of Roots:

1. Install the Roots app

2. Set your intentions

Setting intentions is not just a feel-good practice. It's actually backed by science. You are almost twice as likely to succeed when you set clear intentions and document them.

  • How much time do you want to spend on your phone each day?

  • How many times do you want to check your phone each day?

  • How many times do you want to tap and scroll each day?

We recommend starting with intentions that feel attainable, and increasing difficulty as you continue to use the app.

3. Create your app limits

Think of app limits as the hard ceiling โ€” what's the most time you want to spend on an app or app category? For many of us, it makes sense to start with a few key app limits:

  • Social media

  • Productivity apps

  • Games

As you stay under your limits, you'll build up a streak. See how many days you can string together!

Pro tip: use "Monk Mode" for app limits you can't skip!

4. Create your downtime sessions

Think of downtime as a way to make the most of your day, and help you stay under your total app limits. Many times, if you set up downtime correctly, you make not even hit your app limits!

Here are the most popular downtime sessions:

  • Morning downtime

  • Work day downtime

  • Family dinner downtime

  • Evenings with kids downtime

  • Weekend downtime

Pro tip: use "Monk Mode" for downtime you can't break!

5. Track your daily progress

Your personalized daily "Balance Score" will update each time you open the app. This helps you understand your daily balance and whether you are staying within your set intentions and limits at a glance.

That's it! Enjoy the benefits of better boundaries with your phone

Now that you're set up for success, here's what to expect from using Roots:

  • Reduce your screen time by 30% or more (most users save 1+ hour per day!)

  • Gain back years of your life that you would have spent scrolling

  • Unlock more time for the things that matter to you

  • Be more present, and balanced


Looking for inspiration? Here's a sample setup:

  • Daily Intentions

    • Screen time: 3 hours

    • Phone pickups: 75

    • Taps & scrolls: 2,000

  • App Limits

    • Social Media (Monk Mode):

      • X, TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat

      • 1 hour limit

    • News & Entertainment (Monk Mode):

      • BBC, Yahoo News, Reddit

      • 30 minute limit

    • Productivity:

      • Gmail, Linkedin

      • 30 minute limit

  • Downtime

    • Mindful Mornings

      • Social Media and News & Entertainment

      • 6:00am - 9:00am, Daily

    • Family Dinners (Monk Mode)

      • Social Media, News & Entertainment and Productivity Apps

      • 6:00pm - 7:00pm, Daily

    • Evening Wind Down

      • Social Media, News & Entertainment and Productivity Apps

      • 7:00pm - 11:59pm, Daily

    • Weekend Detox

      • Productivity apps

      • All Day: Friday, Saturday, Sunday

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