Log out of youtube. Algorithm cannot trap you the same way when it doesn't have data on you.

Actively search for video you wish to watch.

Use DuckDuckGo video player when watching video.

Problem solved.

Bonus info: keep tab open with channels you like to get updates from. Check them once in awhile for new uploads. When they don't upload and you have to wait, you will grow bored and find something else to do.

Personally, it has really helped me with my youtube addiction that I am logged out and use a video player that cuts me off entirely from algorithms, comments and ads.

All of the recommendations YouTube ever makes for me are terrible. If I watch 4 videos in a row, without fail the first recommendation will be to watch one of the videos I just watched again. Yes YouTube, this video is perfect for me, THAT'S WHY I FUCKING WATCHED IT ALREADY!

Watch later feature my beloved

Basically just watch until the sponsorship segment then I click away lol

There's a cure: don't use an adblocker. Since opening any new video will force you to watch half a minute of torturous ads, you'll restrain yourself and just finish the current video.

Invidious is great, I forgot I'm avoiding this as well by not using YouTube's official UI.

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