Q&A for How to Survive Without a Cell Phone

Just text them a quick reply letting them know you're about to turn your phone off. Then, turn your phone off and don't worry about your messages. You can always reply in more detail or meet up in person later.

Bring it up with them every once in a while, but don't nag them about it. Go out of your way to get good grades, do your chores without asking, and generally try to make life easier for them. If you keep this up, they'll be looking for a way to reward you. Bring up the phone again.

1. Phones can and do get stolen. 2. Phones can be used to cheat on tests. 3. Phones can distract you from paying attention in class.

You can talk to the people you are traveling with and enjoy the experience.

If you both have internet access, then you can stay in touch over the internet. You can email each other, chat on an instant messenger, talk on Skype, etc. If one or both of you doesn't have internet at home, you should be able to visit a library and use a computer there.

Show your parents your behavior has changed from what you did in the past. If that doesn't work, you just have to wait it out.

They have been gradually phasing out for the past couple of decades in favor of VOIP, and old-fashioned landline service is not available in all regions. Your best bet would be to call AT&T, the largest carrier of remaining traditional landlines, and find out if a carrier in your area provides the service. If not, try other local carriers.

Go to work, like at a fast food place after school, and save up your own money for one.

Talk to your sisters and friends. Say something like, "I feel bad when you leave me out of things because I don't have a phone." If your friends keep doing this, make new friends.

It can seem impossible, especially if you're used to spending so much time on your phone, but you can live without it. In fact, you can even make it fun! Try replacing your phone with something else that's physical so you can still carry something around. Carry a portable music player, notepad, book, or similar object to take the place of your cell phone. This can be helpful if you are familiar with the weight or feel of the cell phone in your purse or pocket, or if you used your cell phone for purposes such as taking notes. It can also be helpful if you want to replace a cell phone addiction with another habit. If you want to read more, try bringing a book with you instead of your phone. Don't look at it as a punishment or as a negative thing. Instead, use your phone-free time as an opportunity to rediscover hobbies you used to love, or even to find a new hobby. Or, spend your extra time connecting with the people around you.

If you're used to doing everything on your phone, it can feel confusing to try to figure out how to operate with one. Don't worry. There are things you can do to get by without your phone. For instance, you may be used to checking your phone to see what time it is and to set alarms and reminders for yourself. It's simple but effective to invest in a wristwatch to tell time throughout the day. Using a watch means you won't have to look at your phone to check the time, which can lead to checking notifications or scrolling through time-sucking apps. Alternatively, find clocks while you are out and about. Many stores and banks display the time, date, and temperature. If all else fails, ask someone for the time or date if you really need to know. You may also be used to getting directions from your phone, but there's a way around that as well. If you're going somewhere new, use a computer to look up directions ahead of time. Either memorize the directions, if you can, or write them down, making note of any landmarks you need to look out for. If you get turned around, don't be afraid to ask someone for help to point you in the right direction.

It can be, especially if you have an addictive personality. Many social media apps and games on phones are designed to keep you using them. If you find that you can't live without your phone, it may have become an unhealthy habit. Luckily, there are things you can do to help break out of it. Try doing something like pottery, dance, or learning an instrument one evening a night can help you cut down on screen time and learn a new skill. Sign up for a class to commit to a phone-free evening so you won't be able to reach for your phone for an hour or more. You'll learn something new and keep your mind occupied. Additionally, doing something with your hands can help ease the anxiety of not having a phone in front of you.