9 fun hobbies to help you break your screen addiction and actually enjoy real life again

Have you noticed how social media, with its short-form content, is a virtual abyss, where scrolling never reaches rock bottom, as the consumption limit does not exist. There’s always one more reel to view, one more story to post, one more comment to overanalyse. Akin to an illusory black hole, the screens continue to devour our attention, except being a victim here feels deceivingly favourable. Yet, we continue to succumb to this quicksand. So, how about we quit the pity play and give ourselves a reality check instead: is the screen the arch nemesis here, or our unrelenting addiction to it?

It’s hardly surprising that every event or social gathering today desperately leans on the “immersive” label, when this once used to be the norm. Brands are hiring yachts and whatnots to lure the powerful and public because the inherent need for human-led interactions is at an all-time high, even though the algorithm will have you believe otherwise.

Ironically, “experiential” is marketed as a novelty when it should be the bare minimum. We’ve reached an age where we’re alright with being influenced by bots and binary beings, fully aware of how this dystopian narrative ends. We sacrifice our sanity a bit more every day, as long as the addiction to the screen continues to be fed. And while the old adage says that a small amount of something is good, let’s be honest, “small” is a highly questionable word here. Unfortunately, doomscrolling is the covert pandemic that’s hit the not-so-immune digital age, and though it’s highly contagious with strong chances of a relapse, we do have remedies at hand.

Our fair advantage? Humans were never made for made-up worlds and mechanical efficacy, or else we would not boast a complex web of emotions. We were made to thrive within the natural elements we’re composed of, and not in a digital framework. That explains the brain rot we face, despite access to all kinds of content at our fingertips, or even bloomscrolling the screens, which we’re convinced will put us in a better mood, but cannot guarantee to (even leaving us with impostor syndrome instead).

If you’re looking to put a stop to the slow death of organic socialisation and resort to simply constructive consumption within reasonable limits, we’ve rounded up a list of hands-on (literally) activities to indulge in. TLDR: quit worshipping the algorithm Gods and turn to reality instead. 

It’s not about cancelling the screen, it’s about assuring we’re using it appropriately before it begins to use us, not so appropriately. And here’s a start.

Bake it till you make it

Sign up for that baking class, because using our hands to create is the perfect antidote to endless scrolling of phone screens. Luckily, baking checks all the boxes, and at the end of it, you’ve got a sweet treat to celebrate with. A win-win for all. If solo is your way to go, open up that recipe book, put on that apron and get going. For novice bakers, start with something simple yet delicious, like a shortbread cookie, which does not demand any fancy tools. If you’re revisiting this hobby as an expert, try kneading dough for a truly hands-on experience. Who knows, you may just create the next best thing since sliced bread. Once that comforting sugary scent fills your home, the notification alerts feel like old news. Better still, share the goodies with your neighbours or loved ones and experience the joy of real interactions, beyond incessant forwards.

Podluck

Hear us out, the world could maybe do with one less opinion, especially when cancel culture is the new age plague. However, the onset of podcasts has introduced listeners to new ideas and ideals, with tough debates, tougher conversations, and also the light-hearted ones with words of encouragement. If you have an honest contribution to this burgeoning world, why not start a podcast club? Invite like-minded individuals to discuss subjects of significance on a rotating basis and let facts do the talking. Word of caution, though: avoid sensationalising topics, and deep-dive into meaningful ones instead. For instance, a day in the life of an ethical hacker, if that’s your forte. Or confessions of the exit interview, if you work in HR. Deep dives, with a side of entertaining honesty. Leaning on tech, yet away from the screen, a podcast is the best way to hone one of the most untapped human skills: listening.

Less mess = less stress

No better way to declutter your mind than to declutter your surroundings. The Japanese call it Danshari, which can be split into three parts: Dan (refuse), Sha (dispose), and Ri (separate). It's a proven method for effective decluttering by ridding oneself of extra items and excessive materialism. Channel your inner Monica Geller and opt for a deep cleanse; closet, cabinets and everything. But remember not to pressure yourself into competing with Pinterest (unless that’s your thing). Make this a practical process for you, putting utility above all else. It’s not always about colour-coordinated aesthetics and grid-friendly visuals on screen. If you need some motivation, turn on a playlist customised specifically for this occasion and simply get going!

 

Host with the most

The hosting game ranges widely from planned weekly ramen nights with your closest crew (that basically require little to no planning), to more elaborate set-ups such as festive dinners with your extended social circle. Either way, the entire process of planning the event becomes an experience in itself, tactile and sensory, with table scaping, karaoke nights, and real-time interactions that even VR glasses cannot replicate. Gentle reminder: there’s a thin line between hosting and people pleasing, so tread carefully. Yes, it’s all about entertaining your guests, a mindful menu and decent decor. But it’s also about bonding as opposed to networking. Think warm ambient lighting to foster good vibes, board games with chaat-cuterie boards, allergen-free finger foods, thoughtful party favours, and more. If the phone must be pulled out, let it be to capture the memories and not replace them.

No strings attached

 

Tune into the best version of yourself by learning an instrument. It’s like learning a new language that resonates with people from all over the world, regardless of where they’re from. A universal lingo that appeals to the senses. Though the gym is great for physical upliftment, music plays an instrumental role in benefiting mental health, as evident in research over the years. From calming the mind to serving as a decoder of emotions and more, music heals. And when you dedicate your time to learning an instrument rather than being addicted to the screen, the possibilities of utilising that creativity are endless. Take George Harrison, for instance, who committed to learning how to play the sitar in his twenties. If he hadn’t, we wouldn’t have Norwegian Wood today.

Down to earth

This might be the best way to grow. You know, touch some grass, recalibrate with Mother Nature, etc. And depending on where you are, it’s best to start small. For instance, basil is a fairly easy one to begin with and makes for a great garnish atop bruschetta, salads, rice bowls, and more. Meanwhile, the spider plant is an excellent choice for pet parents and survives even in indirect sunlight. But if florals for spring do sound groundbreaking, opt for sunflowers, which are low-maintenance and will add an instant pop of colour to your home. For those blessed with the space, hydroponics or farming are great options to go off-screen, too. Remember, compost is the gold you must invest in here. Check with local farmers for the best tips on what kind of crops to grow in which season, depending on the area you’re based in. And in the world of instant gratification, relearn the art of patience as you await a glimpse of your homegrown harvest.

Dabble in hobbies

We did it briefly during the lockdown, and we can do it again. There’s candle making, horse riding, crocheting, paint by number, dream journaling, foraging, and more. The options are plenty, with plenty more scope for digital detoxing en route. Pursuing passions not only puts the brain in a “flow state” of mind, but also becomes an organic way to meet like-minded individuals, build a community beyond the workplace, or even turn into a parallel income stream. Take a cue from our film friends, be it Julia Child or Emily, both in Paris. The former turned cooking into a culinary empire while making French cuisine accessible and doable for an American audience, while the latter continues to find (and make) her way as an aspiring marketing executive in Paris. Hobbies can take you places; it’s not timepass, but a great way to pass time. There’s no bonus, increment or client at stake here, and when that kind of pressure ceases to exist, you may magically find that you’ve got a lot more time on hand.

Lead image: Netflix

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