ANALOG(UE) | ADJECTIVE
The term analogue has been added into our vocabularies as a replacement word for offline. Originally, analogue describes something that uses wave-like signals, while digital signals are step-like and use binary code.
It really is that damn phone
At the start of 2026, every woman and her dog were creating pro-offline content. It became apparent that the conversation was really about socialised addiction, rather than a nostalgia for simpler times.
A lot of us are too addicted to our phones to live an analogue lifestyle. We are on our computers at school or work, on our phones in our in-between moments during the day, and watching TV at night.
Here are action steps I’m taking to start being chronically offline. My goals are to disconnect from digital overconsumption and reconnect with hobbies I used to love.
Journaling ecosystem
A journal ecosystem is a powerful way to organise your thoughts. The system is an extension of yourself, which helps externalise your goals, continue your creative practices and eventually reach those goals.
My journal ecosystem consists of my sketchbook, personal journal, Spanish book, Japanese book and business journal. A mixture of study and reflection helps to achieve big goals and keeps me on track.
We need to practice things again rather than doom scroll. The piano. French. Painting with oils. Gardening. Anything that will produce a sense of fulfilment and connection with our inner selves.
Physical media library
First, let’s start with building a physical media library. You’ll need: CDs, DVDs, a DVD player, books, a library card and a hard drive. You don’t need an iPod, that is purely for the aesthetic. You can just use the file folder on your phone to place your music and films onto in mp3 and mp4 formats.
I’m a hoarder, so I still have my iPod from 2010 with my favourite music on it – Paramore and Hilary Duff – just to name a couple of the greats back then.
Once you have a hefty physical media library, go through your subscriptions and start cancelling them to give your mind and bank account a break. The only membership that is worth it is a library card.
Connect offline and find community
Building a community by volunteering and giving back will help with feeling more connected in the age of online addiction. This can be through spiritual and religious community, non profits or simply organised within your niche communities or friends and family.
Other activities that make me feel more connected are: making music with friends, dancing, singing, exercising in nature, playing games, and eating with loved ones.
A lot of us are so chronically online that we don’t spend time in nature at all. A long walk on the beach, a hike in the mountains or a stroll in the park can provide a rejuvenating feeling and a connection to our world that our bodies need.
