The phrase I hate the most

Offline Recess is a newsletter that invites you to pause from digital distractions and rediscover the joy of finding inspiration on your own terms, away from the algorithm.

A quick summary: It’s Sunday and today we’re exploring:

• A phrase that I’ve hated since I was at least 17

• A short list of offline enjoyments

• My childhood phone

I did not have anyone edit this so if you see a typo, be relieved that I’m a human and not a robot.

Offline Reflection

an intersection of themes and ideas

I’ve probably written about this before, but my least favorite phrase is, “Well, that’s how we’ve always done it.”

And while it sounds dramatic, I wouldn’t say I’m a risk-seeking, adrenaline-loving kind of person. Though some might argue that choosing to become self-employed and running your own business suggests at least some love of risk or adrenaline.

I started my business when I was really young. My brain had just fully developed, and I set out to build a creative agency without ever having worked full-time inside a creative agency. I was a bit naive.

I’m starting another side project (related to work), and in the process, I found myself digging through old Rubbermaid containers full of memories, photos, letters, and yearbooks. Twenty-one years ago, I was about to become a senior in high school and had just been named editor of our yearbook. At some point that summer (yes, at yearbook camp), I decided I didn’t like how things were done. I hated that seniors didn’t get their yearbooks before graduation.

So I shifted the deadline. That year, we had yearbooks in hand before graduation, with a spring supplement distributed later that summer featuring spring activities, clubs, and sports. Looking back on it now, I’m impressed! “That’s how we’ve always done it” didn’t stop me.

I have a lot of pride in 17-year-old me. I want to infuse a little of that same bravery (the kind that sometimes comes with naivety) into everything new that lies ahead.

Offline Things

stuff I’ve been up to and discovering when I’m not on my phone

• I saw the latest Mission Impossible and it was the first Mission Impossible I’ve ever seen. Hilarious. I liked how they made it look a little dated in many ways. I ate so much candy.

• I’m reading this book about the brain.

• I bought tickets to see Oh, Mary! before Cole steps out of performing! (Buying tickets of any kind are a computer task for me. Not a phone task).

• Illustrating again (for work). See some of my most recent work here.

• Ordering every special and cool drink at a coffee shop just to try amongst friends.

• Appreciating this sign in Indianapolis

Nostalgia Loading

remember when phones were just phones?

This was my phone until I moved out of the house and went to college. It matched my inflatable couch. I did have a flip phone but that one was ugly and also only made calls…

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