Chapter 1: A Reluctant Adoption

I didn't acquire a smartphone until 2018, having postponed the decision for as long as possible. The only reason I finally caved was to assist with my local council's footpaths team, where I thought it would be beneficial to document damaged stiles and note obstructed paths.

At times, I contemplate parting ways with it entirely. This sentiment echoes that of Jared A. Brock, who famously discarded his cell phone back in 2011, as expressed in his work "Why I Do Not Own a Cell Phone." Despite not having a smartphone, he has authored multiple books, traveled extensively, and found considerable success on Medium. Clearly, a smartphone is not a prerequisite for a fulfilling life.

Currently, I still possess my device, yet I strive to minimize its use. I avoid installing any social media applications, games, or distractions. Typically, my phone is set to silent, and I have disabled voicemail. If someone wishes to reach me, it is exclusively through text messages or emails, and I don't receive alerts for those either. I only make phone calls if they've been scheduled in advance.

The primary functions I rely on my phone for include: a calendar, a notes app, workout applications, podcasts, a clock, and a camera. However, I could easily substitute these with: a pocket diary, a notebook, an MP3 player, an exercise book, a watch, and a traditional camera.

While it may appear less convenient to manage several individual devices for these tasks, it would liberate me from the constraints imposed by a smartphone.

Chapter 2: The Social Media Trap

For the moment, I am grateful to be steering clear of the ultimate pitfall: social media applications. These platforms represent a significant source of distraction from genuine experiences. There is absolutely no need to receive notifications every time someone shares a trivial thought or a silly image.

These applications are designed to be addictive, and this is no accident. Social media companies are acutely aware of the detrimental effects their platforms have on individuals' mental well-being, similar to how tobacco companies have long recognized the damage smoking inflicts on health.

It's astonishing that it wasn't until 2007 that smoking was prohibited in indoor public spaces in England.