This week’s must-reads: If You Don’t Plan Your Time, Someone Else Will.

In my work as a behavioral designer, I come across important stories on how psychology influences our behavior. Every week, I share my round-up of the most important stories at the intersection of psychology, technology, and business. I hope you enjoy them!

If You Don’t Plan Your Time, Someone Else Will (NirAndFar) When we let someone steal our time and attention with distraction, we’re paying with a non-refundable, non-renewable resource.

Would You Rather Give Up Sex or Your Phone? [AUDIO] (Podcast) According to one survey, “almost a third of Americans would rather give up sex for a year than part with their mobile phone for that long.”

Suicide risk and social media: is it a landmine or a lifeline? (PSYCHE) Has the proliferation of social media caused a decline in mental health? Don’t be so sure. Social media may actually be making things better, if used correctly.

A Simple Plan to Solve All of America’s Problems (The Atlantic) The U.S. doesn’t have enough COVID tests — or houses, immigrants, physicians, or solar panels. We need an abundance agenda.

What We Don’t Want to Know (Vice) The study of deliberate ignorance reveals the topics people want to remain in the dark about.

How ‘Gamification’ of Everything Is Manipulating You (and How to Recognize It) (Lifehacker) Companies are using gamification to manipulate you. Here’s how to see it and fight against it.

Happy reading!

- Nir