Reclaim attention. Reduce defaults.
The problem
Short‑form video is engineered to capture attention: infinite scroll, autoplay, variable rewards. For many of us—and especially younger generations—it can crowd out deep learning, creativity, relationships, and rest.
This isn’t about shame. It’s about design. If distraction is the default, we will drift.
Our mission
Make mindful attention easier by removing the most common entry points into short‑video rabbit holes. We can’t stop the trend, but we can minimize unintentional time loss.
Our method
Build practical tools (starting with browser extensions) that hide Shorts/Reels surfaces in listings. Direct links still work—so intention stays.
Principles
- Privacy‑first: no tracking, no analytics by default.
- Open source: transparent code, community review.
- Non‑moralizing: we reduce friction, we don’t shame people.
- Small, reversible steps: remove one surface at a time; measure what improves.
- Kids deserve protection: defaults should not optimize for compulsion.
What we build
- Browser tools to hide short‑video entry points across platforms.
- Simple household & student playbooks to reduce mindless scrolling.
- Community reporting: screenshots + URLs when new surfaces appear.
How to help
- Try the extension and report leaks: GitHub issues
- Share the pledge with friends, schools, or teams.
- Contribute code to expand coverage.
Disclaimer
deshort is not medical advice. It’s a set of tools and community practices to reduce distraction.