I’ve noticed lately that I’m starting to cherish the process of creation.

I guess it started with writing in this journal, but i’ve noticed that there’s a joy and anticipation creeping back into my life at the thought of creating something instead of consuming it.

Initially when I started this challenge I was really missing my phone and social media. I missed the buzz it gave me and the process of constantly keeping myself busy and having something to to do.

As I’ve been writing in my journal I’ve been thinking about how my actions can change my habits and visa-versa.

For example, taking my mobile away from myself has given me the time to think, reflect, plan and contemplate. This has created a greater sense of self and has helped me to realise some of the things I want out of life. Not only that, it’s given me the time and the freedom to start thinking about a plan to achieve them.

The other aspect which surprised me was the physical. When I gave up smoking many years ago, one of the hardest aspect I found about quitting was finding something to do with my hands. I’m getting that feeling with this process also and has led to me picking up my guitar more.

The biggest change for me is that I’m starting to become a creator, not a consumer.

I think this is a really important part of beating mobile phone and social media addiction as it’s much too easy these days to become a consumer and get sucked into the idea of thinking you’re a ‘creator’ - however, liking, sharing, clicking and tagging does not a creator make.

As my brain is changing from a ‘watch and observe’ mentality to a ‘think and act’ state of mind, I find myself thinking about the things I want to create. Things like:-

• positive memories for my kids
• music
• friendships with meaning
• art
• a deeper connection with my wife
• poetry
• a better understanding of myself
• writing
• a strong family bond

Funny thing is that none of the items above cost a cent! I guess the best things in life really are free.