World Day Without a Phone: What if we looked up? 😉

Cliquez ici pour lire en français

In a world where our smartphones seem to have taken control, the idea of living without them for a few days might seem revolutionary. The World Day Without a Phone, which runs from February 6 to 9, 2025, invites us to rethinkd our relationship with technology. The goal is not to ban phone use but rather to encourage a pause—a moment of reflection to become aware of our dependence.

In an ultra-connected world, this day may seem trivial… or essential. But deep down, do we really need it? The numbers speak for themselves.

The origin of a disconnection 📵

Launched in 2001 by writer Phil Marso, the World Day Without a Phone was created to question our growing dependence on mobile devices. Choosing February 6—the feast day of Saint Gaston and a nod to Nino Ferrer—the initiative reminds us that while phones were once limited to calls, the advent of smartphones has transformed them into extensions of ourselves. Now extended over three days, this event is the perfect opportunity to ask: can we really live without our phones?

Are we really addicted? The numbers speak 📊

If you think you’re not dependent on your phone, these statistics might make you reconsider:

•  On average, we spend 3 hours and 30 minutes per day on our smartphones.
• We check them about 150 times a day, often automatically.
• 71% of users say they struggle to go without their phones for more than a few hours.
• Nomophobia: This term refers to the anxiety caused by not having a phone, and it affects more and more people.

Our devices have become our personal assistants, email inboxes, alarm clocks, payment methods, and sources of entertainment—in short, an extension of ourselves. But this constant presence comes with consequences: sleep disorders, difficulty concentrating, and an impact on social relationships. So how can we learn to let go?

How to take on the challenge (and maybe gain some freedom)🛡️

Going without your phone for a day might seem impossible, but here are some tips to make the experience more manageable:

• Inform your contacts: A simple message the night before can prevent worry or misunderstandings.
• Plan alternatives: Use an alarm clock to wake up, a notebook to jot down ideas, and a watch to check the time.
• Disable unnecessary notifications to reduce constant distractions. Or better yet, activate airplane mode to avoid temptation.
• Avoid multitasking: Keep your phone away during meals or while watching TV.
• Schedule phone-free moments, even if it’s just a few hours a day.
• Engage in activities: Reading, sports, outings with friends—the busier you are, the less you’ll miss your phone.
• Set gradual goals: If an entire day feels too long, start with a few screen-free hours.

The goal is not to demonize smartphones but to regain control over their use. Less compulsion, more choice. And who knows? This day might inspire you to make digital detox a more regular habit.

Do we really need a day without phones ?🤔

So, is the World Day Without a Phone just an idealistic dream or a real necessity? It’s hard to say. What’s certain is that it highlights an essential question: are we still in control of our digital habits?

Disconnecting to reconnect with ourselves and others—perhaps that’s the true lesson of this initiative. And what if, tomorrow, instead of instinctively reaching for our phones first thing in the morning, we simply enjoyed the present moment?

Why not try going without your smartphone for a day, in line with this global initiative? You might be surprised by the peace and mental clarity that even a temporary disconnection can bring. It could be the first step toward a more balanced use of technology.

How do you assess your smartphone use? What do you think of this initiative—useful or not? Share your thoughts in the comments!