I’m trying to do more nothing

Recently, I’ve been observing my relationship with my phone.

While my screen time is healthy (less than 3 hours a day on average), I realise that my phone is constantly involved throughout the day.

Soon after I wake up, I have a podcast playing in the background.

While exercising, it’s another podcast.

While commuting to and from work, I read a book or listen to music.

Music is constantly running while I’m working.

In the evenings, I’m doom-scrolling, and soon enough, it’s time for bed.

In other words, my brain is constantly stimulated without proper rest.

The research shows that this is not great for sleep, creativity, or productivity, so I’ve decided to spend more time doing nothing.

Doing nothing means no screens. It’s unstructured time with no goal in mind and no target focus of attention.

It’s only been a few weeks, and I’ve had to increase the time I can spend without phones gradually, but I can already see the benefits.

During that time of rest, I had some great ideas, had a breakthrough on a problem I was facing, and was able to focus on tasks for longer.

Today’s prompts are around your relationship with screens.

Today’s Prompts

1 - Productivity

How would your day change if you had an hour of unstructured time with no screens?

2 - Productivity

Spend 15 minutes without any devices. What thoughts and ideas came to mind?

3 - Quote of the day

“We don’t have a choice on whether we use technology, the choice is how we use it.” - Unknown

4 - The 'If you don’t have time’ Prompt

What’s one small step you can take today to reduce screen time?

Get the most out of your journalling:

• Choose one prompt: Focus on just one prompt each day to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

• Be brutally honest: Reflect openly and honestly. This is your safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings.

• Take your time: Sometimes it takes a few days to clarify your thinking. Here’s permission for you to take your time to unravel a prompt and not take on any new ones during that time.

• Journal your way: Whether you prefer writing, audio recording, or video, choose the method that suits you best.

• Don't stress about streaks: If you miss a day, don't worry. You can always revisit a previous prompt.

I’d love your feedback

What was your favourite prompt of the day? Is there any specific challenge you want prompts for? How can I improve the content of the newsletter? Reply this mail and let me know!