Offline November (2022)

We have become more and more dependent on technology, and smartphones are at the forefront of it. They are ubiquitous, providing us with an endless stream of information, entertainment, and social interaction. However, have we ever stopped to think about just how much we rely on our phones? Well, that is precisely what I wanted to find out by going without my smartphone for a month.

The idea of going without a smartphone seemed daunting at first. I had been using an iPhone for years, and not a day had gone by without me checking it multiple times. But the more I thought about it, the more I realized how much I wanted to break free from this constant cycle of phone usage.

So, I decided to take the plunge and embark on my month-long experiment. The first step was to request a physical SIM card and purchase a 'dumb phone.' The idea behind this was to have a device that would allow me to make calls and send texts, but without any of the bells and whistles of a smartphone. I also downgraded my subscription to only allow for minimal data usage.

Once I had made the switch, I notified my social circle that I would not be able to respond as quickly. To be clear, I was still using social apps, but only on my desktop, and at scheduled times. I also continued to use email for communication.

Proof I really didn't use my phone.

The first few days were a bit difficult, as I had to adjust to not having my phone with me at all times. But as the days passed, I began to notice some positive changes. For one, I felt more focused and present. I was no longer distracted by constant notifications and mindless scrolling.

Another benefit was that I felt more relaxed. I didn't feel like I needed to be constantly connected to the online world, and instead, I could focus on the present moment. It was liberating to be able to take a break from the virtual world and just enjoy the world around me.

However, there were some drawbacks as well. One of the most significant disadvantages was online banking. Without access to a smartphone, verifying my card each time I made a transaction was a cumbersome process. I had to use a separate device for this, which was inconvenient.

But overall, I was surprised to discover that many aspects of life can be managed without a smartphone. I learned that we don't necessarily need to be connected to the internet at all times. With a bit of effort, we can still function offline.

After the month-long experiment was over, I reflected on my experience. I realized that going without a smartphone had been a valuable lesson for me. I had learned that I didn't need to be constantly connected to the online world to be happy and productive.

In conclusion, living an offline life in 2022 is still possible, and it's a fortunate lesson to learn. Technology has undoubtedly made our lives easier in many ways, but it's also important to take a break from it from time to time. I encourage everyone to try going without their smartphones for a while and see how it affects them. You might be surprised at the positive changes it can bring.