Going Back to Basics with a Basic Phone: My Digital Detox Experience
Hey everyone, it’s Vic from Phone Arena! I’ve been reviewing smartphones for almost 10 years now and I’ve used everything from iPhones to Android phones to Windows phones and even a few pound devices. Back when we didn’t have smartphones, I used to dream of having a device that could do it all – a device that could take notes, play videos, and function as a camera. Nowadays, all smartphones have these features and more. However, in the past few years, I’ve found that my relationship with my smartphone is as much beneficial as it is detrimental. I’ve developed a habit of constantly checking my phone for notifications, spending extravagant amounts of time on social media, and finding it hard to fall asleep without watching a couple of YouTube videos. My smartphone has gotten overwhelming for me, so it was time to take action.
I searched for a device that could replace my iPhone 10s Max – a device that I could still use for calls and texts, but not much else. Unfortunately, in 2020, there are very few such devices. Then, I came across an old Motorola Razr, the one that you can violently shut to end the call. I set a no-smartphone rule for my bedroom, decided to check social media only on my laptop, and not have access to it at any given time. Lo and behold, it worked! The digital detox felt good, my sleep schedule normalized in just a few days, and I felt more rejuvenated and healthier in the morning.
However, I did miss little conveniences like Apple Pay, calendar reminders, and taking pictures. The benefits of my detox outweighed those few downsides. Living with this basic phone made me feel more free from notifications and social media. I appreciated smartphones more for all the convenience and speed they offer, but I realized that they can be too much sometimes. Controlling digital addiction is overwhelming; I cannot do it well, and I found myself feeling like a substance abuser.
I would love it if I could have dual-phone life, meaning I could have my sim card active in both a super modern smartphone and a basic phone that only functions for calls and nothing else. Unfortunately, smartphone companies mostly care about their profits and won’t bring the dual phone project into reality. For your health, going back to a basic flip phone could be a better solution. It certainly was for me.
My advice to those who also feel overwhelmed by technology is to try to control yourself and use different app limits. If that doesn’t work, don’t hesitate to switch back to a basic phone. It might look weird in stores or on the street, but if it helps you achieve your goals, then it’s worth it.
Have you had the same issue of technology being overwhelmingly addictive? How did you deal with it? Share your strategies and thoughts in the comments section, maybe we can figure out a way to use our smart technologies without them taking control of our lives.
FAQs:
1) Is it necessary to switch to a basic phone for a digital detox?
A: It depends on an individual’s reliance on technology. If you’re addicted and find it hard to control, then switching to a basic phone can help.
2) Will smartphone companies bring the dual phone concept to reality?
A: For now, it seems unlikely since smartphone companies care more about profits than our health.
3) What are the benefits of a digital detox?
A: The benefits of a detox include better sleep, time management, and reduced anxiety and depression.
4) Are there any drawbacks to switching to a basic phone?
A: You’ll miss some convenient features like Apple Pay, calendar reminders, and camera functions, but it is a small price to pay for the freedom from notifications and social media.
5) Can you switch back to a smartphone after a digital detox?
A: Yes, but it’s essential to be aware of addictive patterns and use the smartphone appropriately.