I've been experimenting with digital minimalism for the past few months, and the results have been surprisingly profound. It's not about rejecting technology entirely—it's about being intentional with how we engage with it.
What I've Changed
Phone Usage: Removed social media apps from my phone. If I want to check Instagram or Twitter, I have to do it deliberately on my computer. This simple friction has reduced my mindless scrolling by about 80%.
Notifications: Turned off almost everything except calls, texts, and calendar alerts. My attention feels more like my own now.
Email: Check it twice a day—once in the morning, once in the evening. The world hasn't ended, and I'm more focused during the day.
Unexpected Benefits
The most surprising change has been in my creativity. With fewer digital distractions, my mind wanders more. I find myself having ideas while walking, cooking, or just sitting quietly. These moments of boredom that I used to fill with phone scrolling have become generative spaces.
I'm also sleeping better. The blue light reduction is part of it, but I think the bigger factor is mental. My brain isn't processing a constant stream of other people's thoughts and opinions right before bed.
The Challenge
The hardest part isn't the technology—it's the social aspect. When everyone else is constantly connected, stepping back can feel isolating. But I'm finding that the relationships that matter adapt. Real friends understand when you don't respond to messages immediately.
Digital minimalism isn't about perfection. It's about consciousness. Every time I reach for my phone now, I pause and ask: "What am I looking for?" Usually, the answer is nothing specific, and I put it back down.
Small changes, big impact. ```