You aren’t going to believe this but I wrote the outline for this column, my first of the year, on a notepad. I guess we ought to change things up some times.
Something else I’ve been prioritizing lately is reading time. I’ve started filtering out what I consume on the web and it’s already filled me with newfound inspiration and refreshing observations. Since it’s somewhat still the “beginning of the year,” I figure it would be fun to write down a few of my predictions around digital, culture, and tech for 2026. And maybe, if time permits, I can return at the end of the year and see how close, or far off, I was.
Distraction-Free Spaces
There has been a growing desire to step away from the constant noise. Many readers are finally escaping the algorithm and turning to spaces where they can pick and choose what they consume with minimal distractions.
- RSS feeds are back or maybe they’re just being rediscovered. RSS feed readers let you aggregate content from across the internet into one place, making it easier to digest media without inbox overload or algorithm fatigue. I am currently using Feedly, and I’ll likely write more about it in this column throughout year. My RSS feed.
- Email is also finding its way back. Not so much as a marketing channel, but as a more thoughtful way to invite, update, and connect with others. I’m already picturing the shift from Instagram Close Friends to newsletter-style life updates sent instead.
- Social platforms, like Instagram, will finally be accepted as an archive rather than a living space for daily updates. I am manifesting less scrolling and posting, or even exiting altogether, to make room for a slower, more analog life this year.
Analog Moments
“Analog” is my chosen word of the year, and I have a feeling that more of us will be chasing the nostalgia of what surfing the web, and what life in general, used to feel like.
- Pen and paper are making a comeback. Whether it’s grocery lists, to do lists, chore lists, or invitation lists, they will all be written down. Not only does this make it easier to stay focused without reaching for a device, but it brings back the tactile experience of writing things out.
- When it comes to the platforms, physical formats are making an appearance, too. Vinyl records, CDs, Blu-ray DVDs, video games. Some will dust off old iPods or even buy non-smart devices because anything distraction-free feels especially appealing right now.
- Family time will look a lot like video games, board games, and puzzles. With the Super Bowl, the Olympic Games, and the World Cup ahead this year, a lot of our time will be spent gathered around sports, games, and TV, enjoying the moment and making memories.
Intentional Commitments
There’s also a growing shift towards patience and growth through experiences.
- Instead of tv binges, we’ll be easing back into weekly show releases. We’ll pencil in more “me” time, or “we” time, to catch up on the latest episodes and movies. This approach makes media consumption feel more intentional and rewarding.
- More time will be set aside weekly, monthly, or even quarterly for hobbies and activities like playing an instrument, signing up for a dance class, or taking up pottery. These small yet meaningful commitments help us slow down, relax, and have something to constantly look forward to.
- Business cards are sliding back in this year, too. I also think creatives will put more energy into their personal portfolios and websites instead of relying solely on their social content.
These are my humble predictions for the year. Or maybe they’re just my personal anticipations. Regardless, I have a feeling that many of these shifts will stay relevant throughout 2026, and hopefully beyond.
What do you think? If any of these resonate, or spark your own predictions, I’d love to hear about them.
