20 Reasons to Go Without a Phone in Today’s World
In a time that is dominated by digital connectivity, the idea of ditching your phone might sound as archaic as writing letters with quills and ink. Yet, there’s a growing movement advocating for the benefits of unplugging from the constant buzz of notifications and all of the endless scrolling and streaming.
The decision to go without a phone can offer plenty of advantages that can help your mental and physical well-being. I have thought about going without a phone in today’s world and here are some reasons why.
Please know I am not judging anyone here today. It’s interesting when we have family parties and 75% of the family members are on their cell phones. I don’t see the interaction at restaurants like we used to see, but people are photographing their dinner plates piled high with delicious-looking food.
Or I see drivers talking on their cell phones, and yes, I see some people texting. What text or call is that important, I ask you? I have witnessed people at conferences begging people to put their phones down. We know people who have lost loved ones because someone had to “take a call” while driving, which is unacceptable. No call or text is EVER that important, in my opinion.
There’s a wide variety of reasons to make a disconnection from your mobile devices, at least periodically every day. Here are some to consider:
1. Rediscover the Art of Conversation
Without a phone constantly trying to grab your attention, you’ll find yourself engaging more deeply in face-to-face conversations. Instead of distracted nods and half-hearted replies, you’ll experience genuine connections with the people around you. I love sitting around and talking with my friends and family without a phone attached. How to Connect with Like-Minded Emergency Preppers
As I see young people at the park, in the store, in the local cafe, and in other places viewing their phones, I realize many of them are missing the full richness of human relationships. Those face-to-face conversations and eye contact can provide deeper connections than you ever find with a phone. With the added benefit of body language, dialogue becomes meaningful conversations as we express our feelings and ideas.
2. Live in the Moment
With no phone to distract you, you’ll be more present and attentive to the world unfolding before your eyes. Whether it’s watching a sunset or relishing a delicious meal, you’ll find joy in the simple pleasures of life.
Having access to the Internet has opened a whole new world for most of us. It has also caused an immersion into screen time in a powerful way and the loss of sensory awareness of the beautiful world right around us.
3. Boost Productivity
Without the temptation of endless social media scrolling, you’ll reclaim countless hours of productivity. Say goodbye to procrastination and hello to a newfound sense of accomplishment. 6 Paper Products For Survival: How I Store Mine
Putting the phone down in the work environment, or even when doing meaningful tasks at home, there will be less distraction from the task(s) at hand and less time wasted. As parents, quality time with our kids is vital, with the phone put aside, we can provide sustained attention, something kids love.
4. Foster Creativity
When your mind isn’t constantly occupied by digital stimuli, you’ll have the mental space to unleash your creativity. Whether it’s writing, painting, or composing music, you’ll be amazed at what you can create when you unplug. 15 Creative Ways to Use Old Mattresses for Prepping
Sure, time on the phone can provide some input for those creative juices to flow, but there needs to be a healthy balance and less need for instant gratification from what we see online.
5. Reduce Stress
Constant connectivity can lead to feelings of overwhelm and anxiety. Disconnecting from your phone, you’ll experience a sense of calm and tranquility that’s rare in today’s hyper-connected world. Managing the Mental Stress of Prepping
Time away from your electronic device of choice doesn’t prompt feelings of loneliness if we fill the time with social activities with others. We all need a break from daily tasks, and sharing time with others in real-time can make a significant difference in how we feel about ourselves and others.
6. Improve Sleep Quality
The blue light emitted by phones can disrupt your circadian rhythm and interfere with sleep. Going without a phone before bedtime can lead to better sleep quality and more restful nights. How to Sleep Safely During a Crisis or Emergency
Getting enough sleep can make a real difference in how our daytime tasks go. We’ll be more alert, better organized, and boost our capabilities with a clear head.
7. Cultivate Mindfulness
Without the constant distractions of the push notifications we all get, you’ll find it easier to practice mindfulness and live in the present moment. From meditation to deep breathing exercises, you’ll discover a newfound sense of inner peace.
8. Strengthen Relationships
When you’re not glued to your phone, you’ll have more time to invest in your relationships. Whether it’s spending quality time with loved ones or reconnecting with old friends, you’ll deepen your bonds with those who matter most. How to Connect with Like-Minded Emergency Preppers
9. Save Money
Let’s face it, smartphones don’t come cheap. By forgoing a new phone or opting for a simpler device, you’ll save a significant amount of money on monthly plans, upgrades, and accessories. Maximizing Your Cell Phone as an Emergency Prepper
10. Embrace Minimalism
In a world obsessed with consumerism, going without a phone or other tech device is a radical act of embracing minimalism. You’ll learn to appreciate the simplicity of life and find contentment in the things that truly matter in your daily routine. 10 Cleaning Tips For The Minimalist
11. Experience Nature Fully
Without the distraction of a phone screen, you’ll be able to yourself fully in the beauty of nature. From hiking trails to scenic drives, you’ll experience the great outdoors with a newfound sense of wonder and appreciation. 20 Ways to Manage Pain Naturally Without Seeing a Doctor
12. Enhance Mental Clarity
The constant barrage of notifications and information overload can clutter your mind and impair cognitive function. Going without a phone even for a couple of hours at a time can help clear the mental fog and sharpen your focus. How to Be Tougher Mentally As a Prepper
13. Foster Independence
Relying less on your phone can foster a sense of self-reliance and independence. Instead of outsourcing your memory and navigation to a device, you’ll develop a greater sense of resourcefulness and autonomy.
14. Rediscover Old Hobbies
Remember the hobbies you used to love before smartphones took over your life? Whether it’s reading, gardening, writing letters, or playing music, going without a phone gives you the opportunity to rediscover old passions and hobbies.
15. Break the Smartphone Addiction Cycle
Smartphones can be addictive. When you break free from the constant urge to check your phone, you’ll regain control over your digital habits and reclaim your time.
16. Appreciate Silence
In a world filled with noise and distraction, silence has become a rare and precious commodity. Going without a phone allows you to embrace moments of silence and solitude. I love my peace and quiet so much!
17. Strengthen Focus
Without the constant interruptions of notifications and alerts, you’ll find it easier to concentrate on tasks and work with greater focus and efficiency. I get so distracted by my phone some days that I think it would be awesome to only be able to focus on the tasks on hand, instead of the world around me.
18. Foster a Sense of Adventure
With no GPS to rely on, navigating the world without a phone can be an adventure in itself. Embrace the thrill of getting lost and discovering new places without the aid of technology. 100 Items That Will Disappear After An Emergency
19. Lead by Example
In a world where everyone seems glued to their screens, going without a phone sets a powerful example for others. If you take the time to prioritize real-life connections over digital distractions, you inspire those around you to do the same.
20. Rediscover Yourself
Above all, going without a phone allows you to rediscover who you are beyond the walls of digital identity. Embrace the journey of not being on a cell phone and see how you can rediscover yourself.
More Tips
- Emergency Numbers You Need in Your Cell Phone
- How To Register Cell Phones For Survival
- How to Create an Emergency Prepping Kit
Final Word
While the idea of going without a phone may seem impossible, the benefits far outweigh the challenges. Why not take the plunge and embrace the freedom of living phone-free? Who knows what adventures await when you step away from the cell phone race? May God Bless this World, Linda
Copyright Images: Young People Using Mobile Phones AdobeStock_589696830 By Xavier Lorenzo, Mobile Phones Smart Phones and Tabelets AdobeStock_226316634 By Scanrail
Not to mention, if you have an android phone, that Google records everything you do with it as well as tracking your movements. Even if you have location turned off, Google tracks your movements through cell tower triangulation that still gives them your location to within about a quarter of a mile.
Apples iPhones are not quite as bad as Google but that comes at a much higher cost for the device with only a small reduction in snooping.
Basically, if you carry a cell phone, privacy is impossible.
HI Harry, you are so right! Technology can be good and bad! Our ancestors would never in a million years guessed what a cell phone can track. Of course, they would never have known we could talk to others on a small device such as a cell phone! LOL! Linda
Harry – I have an Android phone and I can tell you that it even listens to your conversations!
I was having wine with a couple of friends one time. We all had our phones sitting on the table. During our conversations, we started talking about end of life issues – burial vs cremation was the biggest topic. Within a couple of hours, we all started getting ads and emails about funeral (burial/cremation) insurance.
It is pretty eerie but it is the way of the world! I am not attached to my phone like a lot of people. Sometimes I have to search for the place I set it down!! Drives my daughter crazy that she can text me and not get an immediate answer!
HI Leanne, oh you are so right about that, it is eerie. Linda
Leanne,
We have had similar happen to us. There is no privacy with a cell phone. Although expensive, my wife and I are thinking about getting de-Googled cell phones. They work just the same except all Google apps are stripped out.
Thank you for another great article! I try to put my phone away while homeschooling the kids but it’s so hard not to check it. The addiction is real! I’ve gone without it intentionally for days at a time and it’s amazing how much more productive and calm I am. Your post is making me want to take a phone break for a while! Thanks again for your wonderful content!
Hi Carrie, thank you for your kind words, my sweet friend! It really is an addiction! If Mark and I ever go out dinner, we try to meet friends once a month, I leave my phone home. Mark has his, in case of an emergency on the freeway or whatever. But, i need a break and REAL conversation face to face. When I’m in a school zone and I see mothers talking into their phones close to their mouths, it really scares me. I stay clear of them. Linda
Good morning Linda, I do believe I’m the only one I know that isn’t attached to my phone. I only use it as a phone and a very few texts (I hate texting by the way). Shoot, half the time I leave home, I forget it. I don’t connect to the internet on it, don’t play games, etc. To me, it’s only a phone, so I can easily go without it.
HI Pam, yay! I need my cellphone to take pictures for my posts, but I am not a person who likes talking on the phone. It’s funny, I remember when my kids were little I had a wall phone with a long cord. I would wash the dishes while I talked to friends or family. Then we got a dishwasher, oh how things have changed. I love to email friends, and when I do text messages sometimes it auto-corrects! LOL! Linda
I am so tempted to go to a flip phone that it’s not funny. I already go without social media, so why not go without a cell phone too? I think it would be a really good idea, if you ask me. Thanks for this great post, it’s awesome timing.
HI Jessica, I see a lot of people going back to flip phones! Social media can consume our lives if we let it. Great comment, Linda
i have always had a flip phone, i use it to make phone calls. thats all i need and this computer
Hi Scout, great comment, you are so right! Linda
Pam,
I’m with ya. My phone sits in my purse, have told the family, friends, DO NOT TEXT ME! If they want to get a hold of me use the HOUSE Phone(land line) as I really don’t use the cell unless I’m traveling. When asked I always tell people NO “smart” phone so they have to use the land line.Cuts the robocalls out on the cell.The land line AND the cell are on the National No Call list. We still get a few calls on the land line but we hang up when the robo call starts.
Hi Kathy, oh the robocalls, and now we get text messages on who to vote for, I quickly block those! Linda
One thing that I want my cell phone for is traveling – I drive 25 miles to get to my daughter’s home and some of the roads are iffy in the winter. Definitely want it then just in case I have an accident. But I rarely carry it around town.
I am with Jessica on perhaps reverting to a flip phone with no amenities like data – just have a cell phone for calls and occasional text messages. But I would then need to get a land line at an added expense.
HI Leanne, I dropped my land line because it was so expensive. I held on to that baby for years but the price kept going up. I totally agree with you when you travel. Plus there is an app you can share with your daughter called “Find My” she can see where you are and know how close you are to her house. Our family shares our whereabouts, not all (LOL), but most for safety reasons. Linda
Because you don’t need one??
HI Judy, I wondered if my article might be confusing. Great question. I was trying to explain how much some people are plugged in to their cell phones. I need a phone and most people do need one for communication. It’s frustrating to me to see people stopped at a stop light texting on their phone after the light has turned green. What call or text can be that important while driving a 5000 pound car? I’m guessing on the weight of a car. I get nervous on the freeway with people going 75 miles per hour and texting or checking text messages and their car is swerving. There is a time and a place to use a phone. It’s not when driving in my opinion. I hope this clarifies my thoughts better. Thanks for the question. Linda
I still have a landline plus a cell. I will not do without a landline until they get rid of them. When the AT&T network went down I could still call for help if I needed it.
i thought there was something wrong with my cell phone but I could pick up my landline
and call my brother to talk. To me it’s a comfort to have it. I belong to a club and there
are ladies who will never get rid of their landline. I spend to much time on my cell phone and I need to stop, it did come in handy when I was outside and fell and had to call for help.
HI June, oh, it took a lot for me to give up the landline. But then I realized it was never ringing. I had to cuts costs so I plunged and removed it. There is something comforting when having a landline that is a real one and not tied to the internet. Thank goodness you had that cell phone when you fell, oh my gosh, I hope you’re okay, my sweet friend. Linda
I’ve never gone beyond the flip phone. No need for anything else–I can do calls and texts–and take photos, although if there’s one I want to keep I have to send it to a friend and ask them to e-mail it to me! I also use it as my alarm clock Anything else, I haven’t got time for–anything internet is on the computer. And the flip phone is far cheaper and sturdier than a “smart” phone, and fits better in a pocket! (Because our signal is “iffy” out here, we also have kept the land line.)
If the phone companies ever go completely to 5G, I’ll simply give up having a cell phone. Until then, though, it’s a reasonably good thing to have–in case my husband has a health episode while we’re out somewhere, or if anything happens while I’m out on a horse!
HI Rhonda, I totally agree with you.I haven’t had a flip phone for years, but they work, so that’s all you need! Plus having a landline because the signal is “iffy” is critical! Cell phones are great for emergencies as well! There is a time and a place for every thing. Linda
What I hate about cell phones when you install many things in your home these days you have to have a cell phone to activate it. Our heat in our house, Turning on our solar panels when they come this week or next. I hate it. I had a cell phone that was a phone but we can’t use it for things like that.
I wish we could go cell phone less but you can’t even find the pay phones we used to have as kids where you put your money in and made your phone call. I can remember my mother giving me $0.50 to use a pay phone. It saved my life more than one time when I found the boy I had a date with was a jerk.
remember the joy of finding change in the bottom of the old pay phones. i’m getting old.
Hi Scout I remember always checking the slots that held the quarters. Oh my gosh, it brings back great memories. Linda
Hi Jackie, oh yes, you can use your phone to turn on lights, heat your home, turn your pool pumps. I just paid the pool guy in Southern Utah to turn stuff on, it was too techi for me. He came once a week to service our swimming pool. Cell phones are great, I just need my grandkids to show me stuff on them every so often. Or I Google what I need. LOL! Yes, I remember the pay phones, those were the good old days! Love that! LInda
Linda,
All of these are great reasons to ditch your cell phone. I have one but it is only turned on when I am away from home. The rest of the time I keep it turned off. When at home we have an old VOIP phone that doesn’t receive texts. And even though that number (and my Cell number) are on the National Do Not Call list I get robo and spam called often enough I bought a call blocker.
As far as I’m concerned texting is a method for avoiding actual communication (and by that I mean human contact.
But more to the point it’s about privacy–and the lack thereof.
Hi Ray, you nailed it! Those robo/spam calls are the worst, I have so many numbers blocked. LOL! Privacy and peace is the name of the game. Love this, Linda
Oh Linda! I had a real good laugh when AT&T told everyone about their outage and we should use our landlines! A real stitch in my side laugh!
We have a $20 Tracfone, 5 years old now, costs $19.99 for 90 days, and yes, it is a plain old flip phone. Our car has Bluetooth. If we are, God forbid, in an accident and not able to call for help the phone & car connect to 911 to get us help. Good enough? For us – yes. I have a camera (not a smart phone). We have a landline (does NOT connect with our kitchen appliances, etc.). We have survived this long without some expensive and very breakable item.
I think I have to agree. I’m old (71). Hubby is old. (81). There are much more important things in life. Our grandson called me when he was 8. “Grandmother!! I sent you an email!!” Naturally I asked him what was going on. He went on for 15 minutes telling me
Mom did this, Dad did this, we went here, we went there, the dog threw up, we got gas in the car, we went to the library. I told him how much I enjoyed talking to him and his answer? “But Grandmother! I sent you an email!” *sigh*
Hi Cheryl, oh yeah, the conversations wih the grandkids are the best! I LOVE LOVE LOVE your comment! Your 8 year old grandson sent you an email, oh my gosh, that’s the cutest thing ever! Our car is so old it doesn’t have bluetooth, but I’m okay with that. Life is good however we communicate! Linda