I had a similar experience as the author when trying to do a "digital detox." I removed apps from my phone, installed a launcher that forces you to type the app name you want to open, changed the screen to black and white, etc. Yet a new distraction always creeps in to fill the space.

The most useful thing I did was put all my electronic devices in a separate room when going to bed. Before, I would often stay up on my phone until I was seconds away from falling asleep. The first day trying to fall asleep without any distractions was scarily difficult. Just being alone with your own thoughts, worries, stress, etc. can be really uncomfortable. But after getting used to it, not only do I get better sleep, but I think I also have better self-control to resist distractions during the day.

So for anyone looking to reduce distractions, start by removing all distractions when going to sleep. The first few times trying to fall asleep without distractions will probably be harder than you think, but it gets easier and you'll be better for it in the end.