The Challenge of Hobbies

In the past, my typical response to frustration was to seek a quick distraction online. The internet offers a plethora of easy diversions, some of which even seem productive—like watching educational content or experimenting with a note-taking app. However, these activities still divert attention. Shifting to analog methods requires more effort; it’s no longer as simple as opening a new tab. While tackling a leatherworking project, I encountered several frustrating moments where I wanted to quit. Instead of reaching for YouTube or browsing online, I chose to persevere.

Chores Became More Manageable

Surprisingly, the absence of my usual distractions led to a certain level of boredom. Tasks I typically procrastinated on, such as doing the dishes and organizing my workspace, became more appealing and surprisingly satisfying. My tech-free day turned out to be a great opportunity to tackle those chores that had been piling up, leaving my space in better order for the upcoming week.

A New Perspective on Bathroom Breaks

Like many, I often scroll through my phone during bathroom breaks. However, being without my device offered a rare moment of tranquility, providing a natural pause in my day.

The Importance of Preparation

Cooking a special meal was one of my goals for my screen-free day, and I had impulsively bought some hot peppers on sale. I wanted to create a homemade hot sauce but realized I had no clue how to do it. The inability to quickly Google a recipe was frustrating, underscoring the value of planning ahead. Writing down necessary instructions or picking up a cookbook became essential.

More Time Outdoors and Socializing

Fortunately, my first tech-free day coincided with a beautiful autumn day. The weather was perfect for outdoor activities, and without a phone to distract me, I truly appreciated my surroundings. I also found myself more inclined to connect with friends, using my phone solely to invite someone out for coffee.

Less Time-Focused Anxiety

Constant access to a clock on devices often heightens my anxiety about time management. Without this constant reminder, I felt less pressured about how I was spending my time. While being aware of the time is useful, on a day off where punctuality isn’t crucial, that hyper-awareness can create unnecessary stress.

Increased Relaxation

Boredom can trigger anxiety, but I discovered that devices often only mask this discomfort rather than resolve it. Allowing myself to sit with boredom led to more engaging activities. When I’m connected, I often feel compelled to be constantly productive, facing a never-ending array of choices. Imposing a significant limitation on my options quieted the internal noise and reduced the constant sense of urgency I usually felt.

Looking Forward to the Day Off

There are times when I hesitate to take a break from technology, especially when I’m engrossed in a show or game. Yet, more often than not, the anticipation of my tech-free day brings me a sense of calm and excitement. It provides a much-needed mental reset.

Implementing a Soft-Sabbath

For some, a full day without technology may seem daunting. Schlain suggests many of these barriers are self-imposed, and prioritizing this time for oneself is crucial. However, for those with daily obligations that require technology, a gentler approach can still be beneficial. Consider using apps like Cold Turkey or Lock Me Out to limit usage on your designated day. Establishing a “white-list” of permitted activities can prevent distractions from creeping in.

One strategy I’ve adopted throughout the week is to limit my YouTube usage. I now block my subscription feed and homepage, using a browser extension called “Unhook” to hide recommendations and comments. This ensures that whenever I visit YouTube, I do so with intention rather than mindlessly scrolling.

There are countless ways to reshape your relationship with technology, making it work for you. Uninstalling social media apps on your phone, accessing them only from a desktop, or blocking them for certain periods can help. By reducing the convenience of distractions, you can better manage your time and attention.

Even if you occasionally slip and revert to your devices, remember to re-establish your boundaries and maintain that friction to your advantage.

The first video titled "Less Than An Hour Of Screen Time Every Day For A Week - Is It Possible?" explores the challenges and potential benefits of significantly reducing daily screen time.

The second video titled "Tips for Eliminating Screen Time | How Our Family Cut Out Screens" provides practical advice on minimizing screen use in daily life.