Why does “quickly checking my phone” somehow turn into 45 minutes?

Your phone was designed by very smart people to steal your attention. You open it to check one thing. Five minutes later, you’re watching a stranger make pancakes in Japan. How did we get here? Every notification, scroll, and recommendation is designed to keep you there. Your phone isn’t broken. The system is working. Next time you “quickly check” it, set a timer. Your phone won’t stop you. You have to.