Unlearning the urge to capture everything

It’s automatic now. You’re at a concert, a hike, or a dinner, and your hand reaches for your phone like it’s on autopilot. The moment isn’t real until you’ve snapped a picture, right? But what if we stopped making that the first thing we do? What if, instead of focusing on the perfect shot, we focused on actually living in the moment?

Shift the Focus to Experience, Not Evidence

The first step is to stop and ask yourself: Why do I need this picture? Instead of immediately reaching for your phone, talk to the person next to you about what you’re seeing. Describe the moment. That’s way better than spending 10 minutes trying to get the perfect angle of your coffee cup. Plus, your friend will remember how you described that sunset, not how it looked through a filter.

Also, try paying attention to more than just what you see. What do you smell? What do you feel? The view might be amazing, but if you’re only looking through your phone, you’ll miss the warm breeze or the smell of fresh bread coming from the bakery. Imagine that! Real life smells better than Instagram anyday.

A Picture for You, Not for Them

And if you do take the picture, keep it for yourself. No posting, no sharing, no caption about how “#blessed” you are. Just let it be your little secret—a memory that doesn’t need to be validated by likes or hashtags. You’ll be amazed at how much more special the moment feels when they’re not competing with your Instagram’s algorithm.

Unlearning the phone reflex is a practice. It’s like breaking up with someone you’ve been dating for way too long—there’s a little bit of sadness, but ultimately, you’ll be better for it.

Experience the moment. Then, if you must, take the picture. But remember—it’s for you, not the world.