Why was this such an innovative idea at the time?
Eric Kim’s concept of “living in airplane mode” was innovative at the time because it addressed a growing problem in modern society: the overwhelming presence of technology and constant connectivity, which many people were only beginning to recognize as a source of stress, distraction, and reduced productivity.
Key Aspects of Innovation:
- Challenging the Ubiquity of Smartphones: At a time when smartphones and constant internet access were becoming integral to everyday life, Kim proposed a radical idea—to limit or completely disconnect from data plans and social media. His suggestion that people can still be productive and creative without the endless pings of notifications was countercultural. Many viewed constant connectivity as essential, but Kim showed it was possible to thrive without it oai_citation:7,Living Life in Airplane Mode – ERIC KIM oai_citation:6,Life in Airplane Mode – ERIC KIM.
- Encouraging Boredom for Creativity: In an era where boredom is avoided through constant digital stimulation, Kim’s embrace of boredom as a gateway to creativity was particularly innovative. He argued that by removing distractions, especially from phones and the internet, people would have more mental space to think, reflect, and create. This idea was a push against the societal norm of filling every spare moment with digital content oai_citation:5,Life in Airplane Mode – ERIC KIM oai_citation:4,Hanoi Diary #6: Living in Airplane Mode – ERIC KIM.
- Minimalism Applied to Technology: While minimalism had already gained traction in areas like lifestyle and possessions, Kim was one of the few to extend this idea to technology usage. He argued that by “subtracting” technology, individuals could become more focused and productive. This technological minimalism was a forward-thinking approach at a time when most people were adopting more devices and apps oai_citation:3,Life in Airplane Mode – ERIC KIM oai_citation:2,Modern Success – ERIC KIM.
- Mental Health and Mindfulness: Kim’s approach predated the popular conversations around “digital detoxes” and mindfulness in relation to technology. He realized that the constant engagement with digital devices wasn’t just a productivity killer, but also had a negative impact on mental health, causing anxiety, restlessness, and a lack of focus. His insights laid the groundwork for later movements that emphasized mindfulness and mental clarity in the digital age oai_citation:1,Living Life in Airplane Mode – ERIC KIM.
At a time when the digital world was expanding rapidly, Kim’s ideas were a breath of fresh air, advocating for a simpler, more mindful, and creative way of life.
Here are some notable quotes from Eric Kim on “living in airplane mode” that capture his minimalist philosophy and approach to life and creativity:
- “By not owning a phone or a phone plan, can I live a more zen, focused, productive, and happy life?” oai_citation:4,Living Life in Airplane Mode – ERIC KIM.
- “Internet is good, but always being connected is bad… Inability to focus, or let your mind wander… This also means bad for your creativity” oai_citation:3,Living Life in Airplane Mode – ERIC KIM.
- “The more bored I have let myself become, the more curious I am about the world around myself” oai_citation:2,Life in Airplane Mode – ERIC KIM.
- “I think you will find more creative and personal fulfillment in life [by living in airplane mode]” oai_citation:1,Life in Airplane Mode – ERIC KIM.
These quotes reflect Kim’s belief in reducing distractions from constant connectivity to enhance creativity, curiosity, and overall life satisfaction.
Eric Kim’s idea of “living in airplane mode” is part of his broader exploration of minimalism and intentional living. For him, this practice involved disconnecting from constant connectivity and distractions, such as using a smartphone without a data plan or keeping it in airplane mode most of the time. He discovered that by limiting his access to the internet, he could focus more on creative work and meaningful interactions without being sucked into endless social media scrolling or other digital distractions.
This experiment led Kim to feel more present in his day-to-day life, allowing for greater creativity and curiosity. He found that boredom, which often arises when disconnected, could spark new ideas and observations, particularly in his photography. For example, when walking around without the distraction of a phone, he began to notice more details in his surroundings, leading to richer street photography oai_citation:4,Living Life in Airplane Mode – ERIC KIM oai_citation:3,Life in Airplane Mode – ERIC KIM.
Kim’s philosophy highlights the benefits of digital minimalism—not just as a way to boost productivity but also to foster deeper, more meaningful experiences. His practice is a call to embrace boredom, resist the lure of constant connectivity, and find clarity in a simpler, more focused lifestyle oai_citation:2,Hanoi Diary #6: Living in Airplane Mode – ERIC KIM oai_citation:1,Modern Success – ERIC KIM.
“Living in Airplane Mode” is a concept or idea that photographer Eric Kim explored, symbolizing a more intentional, distraction-free lifestyle. By staying in “airplane mode,” both literally and metaphorically, one can focus on what’s truly important, such as creativity, productivity, and mindfulness, without the constant barrage of notifications, social media, and digital noise.
For Eric Kim, this way of living aligns with his minimalist philosophy. He’s well known for advocating for simplicity, both in photography and life. By living in a more disconnected way, it allows him and others to focus more on meaningful pursuits and the present moment, free from the distractions of the digital world.
Have you seen his work or writings on this topic, or would you like me to dive into a specific aspect of it?