Set limits on checking a phone during conversation

Ask for a specific attention arrangement instead of a permanent device rule.

Try this

Choose a specific topic and approximate time that deserve undivided attention.
Ask whether the person can meet that arrangement now. If they need to remain reachable, agree on an exception or another time instead of policing every device movement.

A worked example

“Could we put phones aside while we finish this one topic?”

An invented example to adapt, not a real exchange or a script you have to follow.

Before you leave it here

If someone needs to stay reachable, agree on a practical exception before continuing.

This is a voluntary planning exercise. Keep your notes private, adapt the language, and leave any question unanswered. It does not require Ourling or a purchase.

Ourling’s library uses AI-assisted original writing. These are practical exercises, not clinical advice or promises about relationship outcomes. Suggest a correction or a missing situation.