(free PDFs) and tips for subtle resistance to our tech-obsessed culture
Maybe is my 90’s teen years or my love for tangible tools, but I have always been a bit more analog than those around me.
When I leave the house I consider it a form of subtle resistance to our tech obsessed culture to bring a notebook, book, and a handicraft. I want to use my waiting time or downtime outside my home with physical tools that feel slower.
Reading a book in a doctor’s office waiting room feels kind to my nervous system. Writing out a To-Do List in a notebook after loading up the car with groceries is grounding for my afternoon (and gives me clear next steps when I get home). Knitting while watching a movie or while chatting with a friend can be calming. Conversation cards can shift an awkward interaction to a discussion that deepens the relationship.
My analog bag keeps me focused on what I care about and reminds me of simple things that bring me joy.
Quick backstory & idea credit:
Even though this is a more recent trend (started by @siececampbell) it’s a practice that I have been doing for years with slightly different goals.
Check out this post from my archives:
I like how Siece Campbell has rules and constraints (ex: keep it small and portable & no digital stuff) for her bag. She also thinks ahead to the event and what would make sense to bring.
And these inspired me to write my own post about my analog bag:
- Substack post: How to create your own analog bag by evermuse
- this TikTok by teal.days [side quest 3 – make an analog bag]
So, how do I make this idea work for me? I’m glad you asked.😁
Let’s break it down in a practical way:
What is it?
An analog bag is a grab-and-go alternative to your phone, filled with things you actually want to reach for. It’s thoughtfully curated with books, notebooks, art supplies, or hobbies that feel fun and inviting.
Why?
I use an analog bag because I want my small pockets of time to feel grounding instead of scattered. When I reach for something I enjoy instead of my phone, I leave those moments calmer, clearer, and more like myself.
A little intentionality up front pays off again and again throughout my week. Those short, quiet chunks add up to real rest, calm learning, and a steadier pace of life.
“Habits are the architecture of our lives.”
— Practicing The Way by John Mark Comer
Practical Details:
Here are some tips to keep from complicating it or overthinking.
1. Pick one bag or basket.
Nothing fancy. A tote or canvas bag you already own works perfectly.
2. Choose 3–5 screen-free activities you genuinely enjoy.
Keep it light and inviting, not aspirational. Use what you already have.
[more on this below ⬇️]
3. Make it easy to grab.
Leave it by the door, in the car, or wherever you usually reach for your phone.
4. Put your phone in Focus Mode (or silence it).
Just for that short pocket of time. Even 20–40 minutes makes a difference.
5. Use it during “in-between” moments.
Carpool lines, appointments, kids’ activities, waiting rooms…
6. Refresh it seasonally.
Swap books, projects, or hobbies when your interests shift so it always feels fun.
7. Keep it simple and pressure-free.
The goal doesn’t need to be productivity, it can just be presence and enjoyment.
🎒Analog Bag Ideas:
more in the free printables I created!
📚 Reading & Learning
- fiction novel
- short essays or poetry
- nonfiction in bite-size chapters
- magazine or journal
- cookbook or meal planner
✍️ Writing & Reflection
- journal or commonplace notebook
- favorite pens/highlighters
- prompt cards
- quick To-Do list pad
- letters or postcards to write
- gratitude list
🧶 Crafts & Creating
- knitting or crochet project
- cross-stitch or small embroidery hoop
- sketchbook + pencils
- watercolor travel set
- collage scraps
🎲 Games & Puzzles
- deck of cards
- Uno
- dice + score pad
- crossword or Sudoku book
- brain teasers
🧘♀️ Relax & Reset
- coloring pages + gel pens
- word search
- quote cards
- mindfulness prompts
🗂️ Planning & Homemaking
- meal planning notebook
- habit tracker
- home project list
- seasonal goals
💬 Connection & Fun
- conversation starter cards
- trivia questions
Check out the FREE PDF for seasonal ideas & more
❄️ Winter: Calm & Comfort
🌸 Spring: Fresh & Creative
☀️ Summer: Light & Playful
🍂 Fall: Cozy & Curious
Years ago I heard Anne Bogel say “Never leave the house without a book, water, and a snack.” This simple statement has saved me so many times!!*
*[because if I am being honest I easily get a bit hangry and overstimulated😉]
My Analog Bag is the easy step up from this wisdom filled practice. Being thoughtful and deliberate once pays off over and over.
When my kids were little I would often say “Where are we going and what do you need?” Instead of telling them what to grab before leaving, I wanted them to begin thinking ahead. (Dance class = bring your ballet shoes.)
In this same way, I try to anticipate what will be helpful and fun for myself.
I keep some basic things in my analog bag and then add in one or two specific to where I am going. If I have to wait 20 minutes, what book would be most enjoyable for me to read? Or if I have some downtime between drop offs what can I do while sitting in my car?
“Your life is the sum of what you give your attention to.”
— Practicing The Way by John Mark Comer
I think of an analog bag as my offline companion.
It’s a personalized collection of engaging, enjoyable items I can pick up as easily as my phone. It turns those odd pieces of time into an investment in reading or simple hobbies I enjoy.
Reflection Question:
What are you excited to put in a bag to bring with you to keep handy?
😁Friendly Reminders:
This doesn’t need to be a radical lifestyle change. Simply using your analog bag 1-2 times per week will make a positive impact on you.
Use items you have sitting in a closet or ignored on a bookshelf. Don’t spend money right away. Action is more important than aesthetically pleasing and photo worthy items.
If your bag is big and bulky it will be annoying and left at home. 😉
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I hope this helps you join this fun trend and get inspiration for being intentional about your random moments and downtime.
I would love to hear what is working for you!
Don’t miss those free printables!
Check out my book for more ideas to live differently in this hustle culture.
