You’ve probably heard it before: “You should really spend less time on your phone!” And sure, they’re not wrong, but it’s not like you can just sit in a corner and twiddle your thumbs. If you’re like me, your phone is practically an extra limb. But when I hit a new record on my screen-time app (don’t ask), I decided it was time for a change. So, I rallied my friends, ditched our devices, and got creative. Here’s a rundown of 10 fun things to do if you’re looking to reduce your screen time, based on our misadventures.
1. Get Your Green Thumb On 🌱
Gardening is therapy in disguise. My first attempt at planting herbs? A disaster—turns out you can’t water them like they owe you money. But there’s something magical about seeing life grow from your efforts. Plus, you can show off your fresh basil on pizza night.
Pro tip: Succulents are great for beginners. They’re basically impossible to kill unless you try really hard.
2. Host a DIY Paint-and-Sip Night 🎨🍷
Grab some friends, cheap wine, and even cheaper paint supplies. No, you don’t need to be Picasso—half the fun is laughing at your “masterpiece.”
My bestie once painted a “cat” that looked more like a pineapple. We framed it. It’s iconic.
3. Hit the Trails 🥾
South Africa is blessed with stunning hiking spots. Table Mountain, Drakensberg, or even your local park will do. Hiking clears your mind, burns calories, and, most importantly, gets you away from Wi-Fi signals.
Warning: Start small. That “easy” route can feel like Mount Everest if you’re not prepared.
4. Master a New Recipe 🍳
Cooking isn’t just a survival skill; it’s an art. One weekend, I tackled making bobotie from scratch. It was chaos, but the end result? Chef’s kiss.
Challenge yourself: Pick a recipe that scares you a little. Worst-case scenario, you’ll have a hilarious story (and takeout on speed dial).
5. Go Old-School With Board Games 🎲
Remember the joy of crushing your siblings in Monopoly? Relive it. Board games bring out everyone’s competitive side in the best (and sometimes worst) way.
For a real laugh, try games like Cards Against Humanity or 30 Seconds. Just don’t play with someone who can’t handle losing.
6. Take a Stroll Through a Farmers’ Market 🥖
Farmers’ markets are a sensory feast. Think fresh produce, quirky crafts, and enough food samples to make lunch redundant.
My crew and I once stumbled upon a honey-tasting stall. Spoiler: There’s way more to honey than “squeezy bottle in the pantry.”
7. Join a Dance Class 💃
Whether it’s salsa, hip-hop, or Zumba, dancing is pure joy (and cardio, but let’s not dwell on that). I once dragged my friend to a beginner’s salsa class. We were awful, but we laughed until our ribs hurt.
No partner? No problem. Many classes let you rotate partners or go solo.
8. Volunteer for a Cause You Care About 🐾
From animal shelters to community clean-ups, volunteering connects you to something bigger than yourself. I spent a Saturday walking rescue dogs, and it was both heartwarming and hilarious (imagine 12 overly excited tails wagging at once).
Bonus: It’s a surefire way to meet amazing, like-minded people.
9. Try a Puzzle or Build Something 🧩
Jigsaw puzzles, LEGO sets, or even a DIY furniture kit—there’s something satisfying about creating order out of chaos.
A friend once decided to assemble a “simple” bookshelf. Six hours, one meltdown, and three missing screws later, it was a proud centerpiece in his lounge.
10. Rediscover the Joy of Books 📚
There’s nothing quite like getting lost in a great story. I recently re-read Cry, the Beloved Country, and it hit differently as an adult.
Pro tip: Visit a local library or secondhand bookstore. You’ll find hidden gems and save money.
Why Reducing Screen Time Is Worth It
Let’s be real—our devices are addictive. But stepping away, even for a little while, reminds us of the simple joys in life. You don’t need to quit cold turkey; just start small. Pick one or two activities from this list and see where it takes you.
Who knows? You might discover a hidden talent, a new passion, or simply more time to connect with the world around you. And if all else fails, at least you’ll have a few good stories to share when you inevitably pick up your phone again.
SFI.COZA—your guide to making life offline just as exciting as life online.
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We at SFI.COZA think that stories have the ability to educate, uplift, and unite people. As a sociable and committed editor, we work hard to provide rich media coverage that connects with our audience. Our ambition to positively touch our audience's lives, one article at a time, is equal to our enthusiasm for storytelling. Come along on this adventure with us as we explore the planet.
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