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Musician Quits Screens for a Full Year
9 Apr
Summary
- Singer Leith Ross is undertaking a year-long screen-free challenge.
- The musician is rediscovering creativity and deeper connections.
- Ross uses traditional methods like handwritten notes and alarm clocks.
Musician Leith Ross has committed to a full year without screens, a significant departure from modern digital life. This initiative, which began on January 6, 2026, is an effort to overcome compulsive screen usage that Ross felt was negatively impacting their life and creativity.
Ross now relies on an alarm clock and prefers handwritten notes, eschewing smartphones and personal laptops. While exceptions exist for essential tasks like booking travel or supervised video calls, the core of their year is dedicated to analog experiences. This change allows Ross to focus on songwriting and connect more authentically with their surroundings.
The impact of this screen-free year extends to Ross's relationships and perception. Interactions with friends feel more meaningful, and Ross is experiencing a heightened sense of presence. They also note a newfound appreciation for physical mail, receiving handwritten letters from fans as a profound source of joy.
Ross believes this digital withdrawal has broader implications, suggesting a need for stronger community bonds in the face of societal disconnection. They advocate for greater accountability from tech companies regarding harmful algorithms rather than solely focusing on individual bans.
As the year progresses, Ross anticipates continuing a less screen-dependent lifestyle, particularly foregoing smartphones. This experience has highlighted the value of tangible connections and present-moment awareness, prompting reflection on humanity's relationship with technology.
