10 Little Things I'm Doing This Summer Instead of Scrolling

Ugh. 

That’s how I’m starting this blog post. With an “ugh.” Because that’s how I’ve been feeling; doom-scrolling has not been helping that sentiment. I’ve been reaching for my phone more and more instead of grabbing my book or other hobbies. 

I hate it. I hate this action of reaching for my phone for a quick dopamine hit. Spoiler — it’s not quick and actually turns into two hours of scrolling that eventually leads to a mindset that everything is burning. 

I’m putting a stop to it. This summer. Right now. I’m replacing this habit — before it even becomes a habit (if it hasn’t already) — with little things that make me feel good and spark creativity, and help me stay grounded in the moment. Small shifts, gentle routines, and habits that contribute to a well-rounded life — my well-rounded life. 

So, here are 10 little things I’m doing instead of scrolling — things that reconnect me to real life, creativity, and joy. 

1.) Take a walk outside with no destination. 

With no distractions in my ears, I should add. No earphones with no album, playlist, podcast, or audiobook (gasp!). Just me and my dog, walking along and enjoying the outdoors. You know that expression, “touch grass?” Well, that’s my mantra. This is the walk to notice things. Say hi to people! — She said as an introvert who barely knows how to make eye contact. If you’re the type to crave stimulation on your hot girl walk, walk with a friend or call your mom to catch up. 

2. Read on a blanket in the park. 

As I’m writing this, a heat wave has swarmed the East Coast, so sitting in the park sounds like the worst idea ever. But when temperatures cool down, a vision of me spreading a blanket on the grass in the park and reading a book envelops me like a warm hug. Funny, in my vision, my phone is nowhere to be seen. 

3. Walk to a coffee shop. 

Similar vibe to reading on a blanket in the park, but this is for when the outdoors becomes too much. Sitting at a coffee shop is one of my favorite late Saturday morning activities. While inviting a pal to sit and read with or catch up on lively conversation sounds ideal, why not sit by yourself and read or people watch? 

4. Keep a “summer scrapbook” or journal. 

I’m not one to print out photos to glue into my journal — so to put my own twist on this idea, compile all photos into a digital album in your phone. If I’m going to be on my phone, why not make it meaningful? Name the album “June” or something more creative. Remember the albums we once created on Facebook? Create them in your photos app. At least these won’t haunt your digital footprint. 

5. Make fun and upbeat playlists. 

This one’s easy — you’re already on your phone. But instead of clicking on the Instagram app for the millionth time, hover your finger over your preferred music app and create a playlist based on your current mood or vibe. Some of my favorite playlists (created by others) are: 

“Romanticizing my life as if I were the main character in a romcom” and “Taylor Swift in: female rage.”  

6. Write one-page letters to your future self. 

If this sounds insane to you, then consider it. This can help you stay reflective and introspective, while also focusing on your short-term and long-term goals and dreams. It can be fun, a year later, to look back on where and who you were. 

7. Declutter parts of your space. 

Is there a spot in your space that screams, “mess?” Instead of reaching for your phone, hobble over to start decluttering that mess. (Maybe it’s that chair in your room.) Trust me — it will clear up that mental jam that seems to live rent-free in your brain. 

8. Perfect a new-to-you cocktail or mocktail recipe. 

Tired of the same things you make every day? Mix together a new beverage! While you may have to scroll through TikTok or Pinterest or whatever app you scour for recipes these days, consider checking out a cookbook at your library. Ina Garten, here I come! 

9. Stretch and move your body — 

— for at least 10 minutes. Turn on a YouTube workout. Visit your apartment gym. Drive to the actual gym. Stretch your body for 10 minutes — or seconds, really, if all it takes is climbing off the couch. You’ll start to feel better and surprise — it gets you off your phone. 

10. Pick up a book. 

I see you — you’re scrolling on your phone while your book sits next to you, unopened or opened. Your book calls your name. Are you answering?