savvy talks: how to get someone off their phone (without starting a fight)

How to Get Someone Off Their Phone (Without Starting a Fight)

You know the look. The glazed-over eyes. The scrolling thumb. The nods that mean, "I'm not listening, but I'm pretending I am."

We’ve all been there—on both sides of the screen. But when you're craving real connection and the person across from you is deep in their digital world, it can be tough to pull them out without sparking an argument.

That’s why I put together this guide: to help you gently (and effectively) reclaim the moment—without turning it into a showdown.

Soulful Ways to Say "Put Down the Phone"

These are the heartfelt, non-confrontational lines that come from a place of love:

• "I miss talking with you like we used to. Can we catch up now?"
  Why it works: It appeals to shared history and invites closeness, not conflict.

• "I love spending time with you. I just want to feel like we’re both here."
  Why it works: It uses emotion, not guilt. It gently reminds them what matters.

• "How about we both unplug for this part of the day?"
  Why it works: Framing it as a mutual intention encourages teamwork.

• "I miss you when you’re on your phone."
  Why it works: This comes from vulnerability, not blame. It shows the phone is creating distance—and you want connection.

Funny But Effective Zingers

Sometimes, humor is your best ally. Try one of these to lighten the mood and make your point:

• "Hello, Earth to [Name]! We've lost contact with mission control..."

• "I'm competing with a 6-inch screen and losing!"

• "Should I start texting you from across the room?"

• "Is there breaking news I should know about?"

• "Is your phone paying for dinner?"

• "And now, back to our regularly scheduled conversation..."

• "This just in: Real person trying to communicate!"

• "Breaking news: Someone wants your actual attention!"

• "I miss talking to your face instead of the top of your head..."

• "Technology timeout!"

• "I feel like I'm on a date with Siri..."

Final Word: Connection > Correction

This isn’t about scolding someone you love—it’s about inviting them back into the moment with you. Whether you go soulful, silly, or a little of both, the message is the same: I want to be with you, not your screen.

Life’s too short to miss the good stuff because someone’s lost in their phone.

So go ahead—use these lines and bring your people back to planet Earth.

Want more tips for real-life connection? Subscribe to the Savvy Planet newsletter and follow me on Instagram @havanagirl, @savvy.planet, TikTok @marianne_murciano and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/sirottandmurciano/ for more ways to live (and love) smarter.

Listen to the talk:

  Originally aired on 06/20/25 for WGN Radio 720.