Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Smartsapiens Challenge?
It is a science-inspired, analog method to guide you towards healthier smartphone use. It is for seeing step cards, a stack of daily micro-challenges and a dice – because change can also be a game.
Who is the SmartSapiens Challenge for?
The Smartsapiens Challenge is for anyone who is curious about what becomes possible when you are guided less by your phone and more by yourself.
Whether you find that your screen swallows your attention more often than you love, or just want to experience more peace, focus and fun in everyday life, this Challenge gives you practical tools to achieve that in a fun, achievable way.
No need and no perfection. Only discover step by step how much space is freed up if you take back the direction.
How does the SmartSapiens Challenge work?
The Smartsapiens Challenge works as a daily journey of discovery towards more focus, peace and fun in your life.
Every day you draw a card from the deck, on which there is a simple, concrete assignment. Some commands make you look at your phone differently, others challenge you to actively change something.
The reading time you need for the assignment is noted on each card, as well as the page where you need to open in the journal.
Everything only takes 5-10 minutes a day – ideal for making a big impact without pressure.
With the included notebook you can easily keep track of what you learn and notice. This is how you gradually see your own growth, step by step. No judgment, no 'must', but airy, practical and inspiring.
What will I receive in my SmartSapiens Challenge Package?
What's in your package?
You get a journal with the 21 steps, space to complete your assignments and a short explanation of why each step really works (including scientific context, for when you need an extra push).
In addition, you get:
21 step Maps + additional support cards where needed
21 Daily Micro Challenge-kaarten: small, fun assignments that make it extra playful
A wooden dice to make your challenges even more fun
A fabric bag to keep everything neatly together
Everything you need to make this challenge fun, easy and effective!
Can I follow the Challenge digitally?
The SmartSapiens Challenge invites you to consciously slow down and start working with pen and paper instead of on your screen. Scientific research shows that writing by hand significantly strengthens your memory, focus and self-reflection. It helps to think deeper, recognize patterns and better anchor objectives.
In a world full of digital incentives, it's nice to be offline and take time for yourself.
That's why we chose to do the Challenge analogously – it simply works better for the intended change.
What does the Smartsapiens Challenge give me?
More focus, more peace, and above all: your own control over your time and attention.
Can I really have less screen time without missing everything?
Yes! You will learn smart techniques to not miss anything important and to be less distracted. And you will also discuss how to deal with FOMO (Fear of Missing out).
Do I become more productive by participating?
Absolutely. Less distraction means getting more done in less time.
Am I going to feel less rushed?
Great opportunity! The Challenge is designed to make your head army and lighter.
What do I feel after the Challenge?
More space in your head, more control over your habits, and a proud feeling that you have done this yourself.
And you will definitely be more aware of unexpected aspects of your smartphone habits!
What makes Smartsapiens different from other digital detox programs?
The main difference is that it is an analog method.
We also use the same methods that app developers use to make you addicted to their apps. But now to help you get rid of it.
Furthermore, we make it fun, feasible and practical. No strict rules, but smart choices that suit you.
Change can also be a game.
Do I have to put my phone away during the whole Challenge?
No! We teach you how to use your smartphone smartly and consciously. No black and white thinking.
Is the approach scientifically based?
The assignments are inspired by proven insights from psychology, behavioral science and brain research. At each step there is a chapter that discusses this and where you can read why the step works.
Why does taking small steps work better than cold turkey?
Because lasting change starts with achievable and small habits and not with total abstinence.
Can I choose how far I go?
Sure! You set your pace. Smartsapiens gives you the path, you choose how you walk it.
Can I combine it with a busy life?
Absolutely. The assignments are short and fit easily into your daily routine.
Before you start, we provide you with five tips. One tip pays attention to integrating the 21 steps into your daily habits. You will receive tips and methods to do this successfully.
Can I do the Challenge over a longer period of time?
Sure! It's all about your rhythm and your own goals.
Is the Challenge difficult to sustain?
Surprisingly, no. The small assignments keep you moving effortlessly.
Because the assignments are short and manageable, and you limit yourself to just one step a day, you will find that it is much easier to keep up than if you try to do five steps a day.
It's those small, consistent actions that make all the difference. Give yourself the space to move forward step by step. You will see that it is slowly but surely changing your digital habits. You will succeed! You can do this!
Do I need to be super motivated to start?
No. Some participants just start out of curiosity and then motivation grows by itself along the way! The method also ensures this!
What if I doubt it's for me?
Just then it is worth trying – you can only win.
Calculate your SmartSapiens Index to determine if you need it.
Is there guidance if I have questions?
Sure, you can always reach out for tips or motivation.
Do I need to perform all commands perfectly?
Absolutely not. The win is in the attempt, not in the perfection.
What if I don't notice a difference?
You often only see the biggest differences afterwards. Trust the process and yourself.
You will be much more aware of all kinds of aspects of your smartphone behavior anyway.
What if I find myself falling back into old behaviors?
That's part of it. Every time you choose consciousness again, you book profits.
What if I forget one day?
Totally okay. Tomorrow is just another chance. No stress.
What if I don't do everything perfectly?
No problem! Every step counts. Failure is part of the learning process.
