Smartphone and Social Media Purge Day 14: Life With the 4G Flip Phone

Journal Entry 2/20

It looked like this:

 0 Posts       0 Followers  0 Following

And it was marvelous. No connections, no representation, no emotional discourse from the lost or hidden follow requests that had slipped through the cracks. No need to “like” my friend’s birthday pics or “love” a picture of someone’s new home. A fresh start. Nobody would miss me. And, they could always message me. After all, I had told my closest besties that I was doing this so they would not take anything offensively. I understand the necessity of having a smartphone for most jobs, so I am lucky I am able to take this break. 

My teenage daughter and her friends are on a bandwagon trend where they have “0 Posts.” Yes, zero posts, as it posits a threat to their privacy. I liked the concept. Also, I had recently seen a news article about Cardi B. and her boyfriend “unfollowing” each other- producing a surreal whirlwind of drama that I could not believe made the news. I decided that the “follower movement” had become a source of unnecessary energy cords that I did not want attached to me anymore. I needed a digital detox.

So, two weeks ago, I decided that I would switch devices and purge my accounts. I know it may sound crazy, but this has actually worked for me and my scrolling addiction:

Iphone to Flip Phone: I bought a 4G flip. The SIM card is functional in both devices so I can switch back whenever I want. However, as of right now, I am enjoying the freedom (or discipline?) of the flip. Internet or App scrolling is not recommended. Texting is obsolete if you are impatient. Selfies can only be taken in mirrors and expect grainy footage on the small screen. I use the audio tool a lot to send recorded voice messages in lieu of long, drawn-out texts. I do miss easy access to information at the click of a button.

Instagram: I archived all of my posts. I unfollowed everyone and removed every follower I had. This is not to cause an upset, rather it is for freedom. Those who understand me and love me will abide. For me it is simple, it is private, and it gives me comfort. If I do log on, nothing is pressing, I've no notifications, it is freeing. I can still message friends and scroll if I wish to.

LinkedIn: I still have access to this app on my devices. I have been trying not to waste too much time scrolling.

I can see how my decision to ditch the smartphone has frustrated some of my loved ones including my mom and some friends. Even my brother seemed disheartened because I obviously have not been checking my medias as frequently. I'm not posting videos like I did. Not sending reels like I do. I actually feel like I am overstimulating others when I send material. Which leads me to the philosophical question: Is it fair to inundate another human with media all day long? Maybe some silence is a good thing...

I looked back at my storyline. So many hours over so many days that I had wasted on political memes, good quotes, and incessant posting of what I was eating or doing that day. Not that I regret any of it, because I can look back and see my hobbies in pictures. I do think to myself however, that all of that time could have been spent sketching, or writing, or even staring at the blue sky...

Focusing on the things I love in real time.

My biggest challenge is that I may need access to a smartphone in the upcoming months for a certain employment opportunity. I also plan on traveling. Having access to WiFi and contacts while abroad undoubtedly makes life easier. I can always print boarding passes. I can read a map. Bring a translator dictionary in book form. We will see.