This year has become a year of change for me. In a lot of different ways. I’ve dropped 40 pounds. I’ve had to figure out how to function without working out due to a fractured wrist. I started a new job after being laid off from a previous employer (of 18 years). I started a gig broadcasting on ESPN+.

I could go on and on about how this year has been a series of events that are all about change. Most of them have been unintentional. Some are very intentional like the weight loss. Another conscious choice has been to evaluate how I use digital communication and devices in my life. This includes the use of the iPhone.

I use a computer for 8-10 hours a day at work. I write on my iPad for several different websites, the local newspaper, etc. So I’m constantly on these devices. I started noticing how I was using my phone all the time too. From taking pictures, to notes, to task management. This doesn’t include social media time, texting, phone calls, email, etc.

I decided I needed to change this habit. Here are a few things I’ve done to try and put the phone down:

  1. I started taking hand-written notes. I have a notebook at work and I carry one in my backpack. I write things down instead of grabbing the phone. Some things still live in the phone because its easier for documenting later.
  2. I decided to stop using reminders and task management. I still use a calendar because of how busy I am. But some stuff that I need to do, I write it down or remember to do it. And then I just do it. I found I was constantly getting notifications on my phone and then ignoring them and not doing the reminder for a while.
  3. I started carrying a camera with me. I have a small handheld Cannon camera in my backpack. I also have a nicer Cannon that I can take with me different places. I found that having a camera allows me to explore photography in a different way. Plus it doesn’t allow me to check Instagram or Twitter when I’m done taking a picture.

So, I encourage you to put the phone down and enjoy life. It only happens once and it’s going by faster than you can imagine!