In this day and age, life can sometimes feel as though you are simply going through the motions. For many, taking thousands of photos on a cell phone is the only way to feel grounded in the moment; however, it is possible to make memories without the need to click a button. 

Concert views are constantly blocked by cell phones, selfies are taken at political rallies, and time together is lit up by the blue light of phones. While cell phones have connected people, they have also caused a lack of attention and presence. 

Oftentimes, taking an excess number of photos can actually cause you to not remember the moment as clearly. This is called the photo-taking-impairment effect, defined by the National Library of Medicine as lowered likelihood to remember information when it is captured through images. Using cell phone images as a way to retain memories may not be the method you are searching for. Diving back into traditional methods can provide an alternative route to holding memories close to your heart. For example, keeping a journal or diary can assist in keeping a log of important events. Another archiving technique, similar to journaling, is keeping small physical items to remind you of your youth. These can be stored in scrapbooks, memory boxes, or small shadow boxes if you want to display them. 

Being present in the moment sounds like a fundamental concept that many live by, but constantly pulling out a cell phone to take a photo contradicts the idea of living presently. The Talon recommends being more present with loved ones instead of filling your phone storage.