Technological advancements have moved us into new ways of existing. The world is smaller and more accessible than it’s ever been. We are closer to cultures that were once distant concepts. In many ways, technology has evolved us. But let’s consider this: if your phone, tablet, laptop, TV, computer…everything with a screen…went away tomorrow, what would YOU do? How would you connect with people? How would you communicate with your coworkers? How would you ask your relative a question about that favorite pumpkin pie recipe?

SkyPlane.jpg
swing
IMG_0320.jpg

For many of us, even the concept of not being able to get online is anxiety-producing. We are often at the mercy of our tech devices. So while technology might be a good tool for cultural connectivity and advancement, have we overdone it? I’m asking you to consider it for YOU and for your immediate community.

Think you can do it…if only for a day? When you’re ready to take the challenge, get offline and report back to us about your personal discovery.

Don’t worry…the screens will be there when you get back.

Here are some suggestions for what to do on your day offline:

  • Finally get to the 100+ projects on your “someday” list

  • Take lessons to learn a musical instrument

  • Interview someone in your family

  • Put up a hammock and dive into a new book

  • Engage in some outdoor activities, like hiking, biking, kayaking

  • Schedule a “power’s out” night with your friends or family. Eat and play by candlelight with board games, puzzles, drawing, etc.

  • Create monumental blanket forts

  • Work in your garden or plant something new on your patio

  • Build something…anything that requires planning and manual labor

  • Get up earlier than normal to watch – and sketch or journal – the sunrise

  • Arrange a potluck dinner party with your neighbors

  • Go window shopping in your favorite small town. Sit and watch the passersby.

  • Spend an entire day with your significant other, friend, or family member…entirely focused on that person.

  • Make homemade ice cream (it takes forever!).

  • Take a class at the local community center or college extension.

  • Write a short story.

  • Wander slowly through all the museums in your town.

  • Schedule a block cleanup.

  • Volunteer at your local animal shelter, food bank, or other charitable org.

  • Invite a friend that you haven’t spent much time with lately to a picnic in the park.

  • Assemble gift packs for those in need.

  • Take a train somewhere.

  • Or, YOU pick something…the list of possibilities is long!