Technology will always have its place, and modern smartphones provide conveniences no one could have imagined in the days before them. But focusing on your phone all day and most of the night can affect your relationships and your health. For instance, phone usage right before bed negatively affects your sleep. We explore some ways to adopt an analog lifestyle in a digital world if you want to become a more attractive and successful man.
It may surprise you to know how much better it makes you feel, and how much more attractive you seem to others. No one respects the man who is glued to his phone all the time, ignoring his surroundings and other people.
Hands-On Hobbies
There’s something inherently impressive about a man who knows how to work with his hands. Plus, engaging in artisanal pursuits showcases your creativity, resourcefulness, and intelligence. You might explore woodworking and carpentry, setting up model trains, creating art, or building raised beds and growing vegetables.
Men have built things since the beginning of history. This instinct is hardwired in us, and taking up a hobby where you build something physical will satisfy this instinct.
Analog Writing Instruments and Wristwatches
Despite the ubiquity of digital communication, the art of writing by hand remains timeless and essential. A growing number of fountain pen enthusiasts are bringing back interest in penmanship. Using a pen and paper requires the time and focus you need to compose written communication that’s more complex and elegant than a quick text tapped out on a phone.
Some advantages of analog writing include improved retention and understanding of information, greater focus, reduced distractions, and an enhanced appreciation for the written word.
Imagine the impact of a handwritten card or letter arriving by “snail mail.” The recipient will feel charmed when they find something other than the weekly grocery store sale flyers and giant political postcards in their mailbox. Maybe they’ll even write you back, the analog way.
Many men have become interested in collecting vintage analog wristwatches. Some get caught up in the mythology of luxury brands like Rolex, while others enjoy the appeal of a mid-century Timex (“it takes a licking and keeps on ticking”). For those of you interested in watches but not sure where to start, check out this article.
Reading Physical Books
Though e-readers and digital libraries offer convenience, don’t underestimate the tactile and sensory experience of reading physical books. Even the smell of a book or a library adds to the charm. Visit local used bookstores to uncover hidden gems. Join a book club or swap books with friends. Create a reading nook in your home to encourage a regular reading habit that doesn’t involve the glare of a screen or the distractions of social media.
Go Outdoors Without Headphones
Natural areas, such as parks, forest preserves, and hiking trails, may be closer than you think, and they can provide a serene backdrop for self-reflection and relaxation. But you’ll only experience the power of “forest bathing” if you unplug and leave your headphones at home. Allow yourself to be fully present to the beauty of your surroundings, but do take your fully charged phone with you, in case of an emergency. Getting lost in the woods is embarrassing at best and can be extremely dangerous at worst.
Adopting an analog lifestyle can prove invaluable in a technology-driven world. By revisiting more traditional forms of entertainment, craftsmanship, and personal development, you’ll become a more well-rounded, attractive, and successful man. Challenge yourself to embark on this journey and reap the rewards that life has to offer beyond the screen.