Smartphones: The Dull Reality Without Games or Social Media
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Chapter 1: The Dullness of Smartphones
Greetings, I’m Janik. Alongside my main job, I contribute articles on Medium every weekend at 11 PM Berlin time. In this piece, I’ll delve into my thoughts on how smartphones can feel incredibly tedious without the presence of games and social media, and surprisingly, why this can be beneficial.
The Attraction of Mobile Gaming
For quite some time, I’ve reduced my gaming and social media activity significantly. Occasionally, I might upload something online, but that’s the extent of it. Sometimes, a game might make its way onto my device, but I tend to remove it quickly when I notice its negative effects on my life.
Humans have an inherent drive for self-improvement, and video games can provide a quick and easy avenue for this. Whether it’s upgrading your base in a game like Clash of Clans or progressing through levels in Candy Crush, these virtual achievements trigger dopamine release in our brains, making us feel accomplished. However, such accomplishments are merely digital and lack any genuine value in real life. They consume time and energy that could be better spent on true self-betterment.
The Weight of My Gaming Experience
Having logged over 10,000 hours in League of Legends and still playing occasionally, I recognize that this time could have been utilized more productively. With that many hours, I could have read countless books or become fluent in several languages. Whenever I find myself in a moment of weakness and download mobile games, guilt quickly sets in, leading to their swift removal.
The Current Landscape of My Phone
Currently, the most stimulating aspect of my phone is my email, which primarily consists of deleting spam, and my Anki flashcards. During dull moments, like waiting at the doctor’s office, I engage with my flashcards. Should boredom strike, I listen to something, but the waiting becomes even more monotonous, and I find myself checking my phone again, only to realize how unexciting my flashcards are. This cycle of boredom underscores how uninteresting my phone has become without games or social media.
Observing adults or teenagers engrossed in games or endlessly scrolling through reels on Instagram or TikTok prompts me to reflect on how they may be squandering their lives. I once had to document my media consumption for a school project, and my YouTube and Instagram usage was embarrassingly high—more so than some of my classmates. The shame led me to alter the figures to appear more favorable. This experience served as a wake-up call, urging me to reassess my habits.
The Advantages of a Simplified Phone
Reducing my gaming and social media activity has granted me more free time, heightened productivity, and improved focus. In my current training sessions, some instructors prohibit phones on desks due to their distracting nature. I comprehend this when witnessing my peers inundated with messages during a 90-minute block. In contrast, I receive only occasional notifications about new articles on Medium, allowing me to remain undistracted.
Challenges and Hurdles
Coping with Peer Pressure
When everyone in your social circle plays a game like Clash of Clans, it can feel isolating to abstain. However, I remind myself that I’ve made the right choice. I fear mediocrity more than standing out. Being “normal” is merely the average of all the eccentric individuals out there, and I take pride in being different.
Conclusion: Embracing Change
The benefits of steering clear of mobile games and minimizing social media use significantly outweigh any drawbacks. If you’ve read this far, I commend you. You’ve opted to engage with content that may enhance your life rather than leveling up a character in a game. I must admit, I still have Pokémon Go and related apps on my phone, although I no longer utilize them. Realizing how these applications obstruct my goals, I am now uninstalling them and encourage you to remove at least one game from your device as well.
Engage and Reflect
If you find these reflections valuable, I invite you to consider your own smartphone habits. Your claps and follows are appreciated if you seek more insights on self-improvement. By following me, you join a community committed to making meaningful changes in their lives. Let’s pledge to use our time wisely and pursue genuine progress together.
Remember: Take bold steps forward, even when obstacles arise.
Chapter 2: The Shift in Mobile Gaming Trends
The modern landscape of mobile gaming has shifted dramatically. Many players are finding themselves disenchanted with the industry.
This video titled "Why Does No One Play Mobile Games Anymore?" explores the reasons behind the decline in mobile gaming popularity, providing insights into changing trends and player preferences.
The technology sector also faces a similar shift, often leading to a sense of boredom among consumers.
In the video "Why tech is so BORING lately," the discussion revolves around the current state of technology and why many find it unexciting, highlighting the need for innovation and fresh ideas.