People are addicted to screens. It doesn’t matter what the activity is; almost anything we do nowadays is done with a screen of some sort. I’ve talked extensively in my article here on our heavy reliance on technology and the negative effects it can have. This is especially true when it comes to extensive screen usage on devices. I’m here to offer some in-depth solutions that are non-screen alternatives to everyday activities. Doing these activities even just once in a while will have a positive impact on you, your relationships and your well-being.
Here’s 5 alternative actions you can take to common activities that don’t use a computer, TV, or phone screen:
1) Write notes by hand instead of typing.
When possible, opt for writing with a pencil and paper. Far too often do we type our notes, recipes, workouts, and daily tasks on a screen instead of taking the time to write by hand. I understand typing is efficient for certain activities, so I’m not here to tell you to write every single thing by hand. But the next time you’re making that grocery list, I challenge you to write your shopping list on a real-life notepad instead of a virtual one.
2) Switch TV time with cards or board games.
I grew up watching TV with my family, but we also spent a good amount of time playing games such as monopoly or cards. When playing a hands-on game with your family, you’ll talk more, discuss more, laugh more, and connect more. Board games and card games also teach skills to children that TV generally won’t, such as problem solving and critical thinking. You’ll develop yourself further and have more fun together.
3) Send a “Thank You” card instead of a “Thank You” text.
Handwritten cards are sadly becoming a thing of the past for some people, but it doesn’t need to be. I am grateful for the childhood moments where my mother made me sit in the kitchen and write handwritten cards anytime someone gave me a gift, no matter if we had smartphones or computers to utilize. There is something genuine and sincere about receiving a handwritten card compared to a text or email. It’s the embodiment of human connection and effort; an art that’ll never grow old regardless of how advanced we become as a species.
4) Read an actual book instead of a Kindle.
I can’t stress this enough. Staring into a Kindle all day, even with all its fancy displays that are supposed to be easy on the eyes, is still staring into a screen. Your eyes will have an easier time overall reading from actual pages. Plus, books have so much character. You ever come across an old book with tattered pages and think of all the history it’s been through? Go out to a library or bookstore and grab a hard copy of something that entices you.
5) Meet a new friend in real life instead of through social media.
Social media can be an amazing tool, and I’ve definitely made connections through the online world that I wouldn’t have been able to do without tech. But if this is how you meet the majority of your friends, I implore you to go out and meet people the old-fashioned way. You will sharpen your communication skills and get to know people on a deeper level in your local community. Real life communication will generate more trust than online conversations. Nothing beats a face-to-face conversation no matter what.
Remember, it’s not about never using screens, but rather fitting in alternatives when available. Limiting screen time is important for every human to thrive at their fullest potential. Now, it’s time for me to get off of my computer screen that I just typed this up on.
Stay rooted, my friends!
One response to “5 “Screen-Free” Alternatives to Everyday Activities”
Love this !!!