When is the last time you’ve been bored? According to New Tech City, a radio program on WNYC, a division of New York Public Radio, the average consumer checks their mobile device 150 times per day. I’m not surprised by that stat in the slightest and sheepishly certain I’m above average when it comes to phone dependence. New Tech City is launching a program called ‘Bored and Brilliant’ to inspire you to take your time back, create time for the things you love and think more creatively…without a device in your hands. On February 2nd, a week of challenges will launch if you need extra help learning how to step away from the phone.
Can you guess how many people out of 1,000 walk down this street in New York City with a phone in their hands?
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Okay, we get the point. We’re addicted to our phones, we’d rather stare at a screen than watch where we’re walking and one day our heads will permanently face down, our hands will curl inwards and we’ll hear the phantom rings of an iPhone on repeat.
As travelers, it can be so easy to rely on our phones as a safety net when we’re in a new place rather than unplugging during travel. When I’ve been lucky enough to travel in another country, I find myself searching for Wi-Fi whenever I have a spare moment. Yes, I can use the excuse that I want to blog or post to my Tumblr page but I’d so much rather unplug and learn from what is around me while I have a chance.
Here are three completely achievable methods for unplugging during travel.
Bring a Journal
Instead of whipping out your phone every time you have a spare moment, bring an empty journal, pen and scotch tape on your next trip. Tape plane tickets, receipts from fun meals and the brochure from a tour in your journal and write a note about that particular experience. Not only is this a great memory book when you get back home but it’s also a great way to reflect on special moments during your trip and express gratitude in the moment.
Send a Postcard
Rather than searching for Wi-Fi at every coffee shop you stop at, take time to write a quick postcard to family and friends. A postcard reminds someone that you were thinking about them during your adventures and allows you to share a special travel moment with them. Plus, text messages can’t be taped to the fridge.
Smile
Try not to have a positive attitude while you smile. Go ahead, try it. Doesn’t work. Smiling not only makes you feel more positive and increases endorphins but also helps you meet great people during your travels. Instead of seeking the comfort of a smartphone in a new experience, push your boundaries and smile at a stranger. You feel happy you did.
*Video is from Bored and Brilliant project from New Tech City.
Happy travels,
@laurylkitson