If you are getting distracted by message notifications appearing on the screen of Mac, you simply need to Log Out or Sign Out of iMessage.
Log Out of iMessage on Mac
Apple services like iCloud, iMessage, FaceTime, iCloud Photos and others are linked to your Apple ID, which makes them accessible on all Apple Devices.
While this integration of iCloud related services across all Apple devices provides a better user experience, there are users who do not like the idea of iMessages always accessible on Mac.
Depending on your requirements, you can simply logout of iMessage on Mac, Turn OFF iMessage Notifications or deactivate your iMessage Account from Mac.
1. Sign Out of iMessage on Mac
When you are done using the Messages App on Mac and going out, it is good privacy practice to make sure that you Sign Out of iMessage.
1. Open Messages App > click on Messages tab in top-menu bar and select Preferences in the drop-down menu.
2. On the next screen, switch to iMessage tab and click on the Sign out button.
2. Turn OFF iMessage Notifications
If you are busy working and getting distracted by message notifications, you can simply switch OFF iMessage notifications on your Mac.
1. Click on Apple Logo in top-menu bar and select System Preferences in the drop-down menu.
2. On System Preferences screen, select the Notification tab > on the next screen, select Messages in the left-pane. In the right-pane, move Allow Notifications toggle to OFF position.
After this, you will still be able to send and receive iMessages, but won’t be bothered by iMessage notifications.
3. Deactivate iMessages on Mac
Another way to take a break from iMessages on Mac is by temporarily deactivating your iMessage Account on Mac. This method does not work on macOS Ventura.
1. Open Messages App > click on Messages tab in top-menu bar and select Preferences in the drop-down menu.
2. On the next screen, switch to Accounts tab, select your iMessage Account in the left-pane and uncheck Enable this account option in the right-pane.
This will prevent received iMessages from showing up on your Mac. At any time, you can go back and enable iMessage on your Mac by checking “Enable this account” option.
4. Prevent iMessages from Syncing on Mac
You can prevent iMessages from syncing on Mac by removing your Apple ID Account from Mac.
1. Open Safari browser on your Mac > go to Apple ID page and Login to your Apple ID Account.
2. Once you are logged in, scroll down to “Devices” section > select the Mac that you want to remove from Apple ID and click on Remove from account option.
Once your Mac is removed from Apple ID page, you will no longer find iMessages syncing on your Mac.