Scrolling is fun, but let’s be honest, sometimes it feels like our brains are permanently stuck in TikTok mode. That’s why more and more Gen Z’s in South Africa are turning to analog hobbies. Hobbies that don’t involve Wi-Fi, notifications, or another screen. From vinyl records to journaling, and especially paint by numbers, these screen-free activities are helping us slow down, de-stress, and create something we can actually hold in our hands.
The Rise of Analog Hobbies
We grew up online, so it makes sense that our generation is craving something more real. According to creative trend reports, Gen Z is leading the movement towards screen-free activities that give us a break from endless doomscrolling. Whether it’s knitting, pottery, or painting, there’s something grounding about focusing on a task that doesn’t light up or buzz.
Why Paint by Numbers Fits the Vibe
Paint by numbers has become one of the top Gen Z hobbies because it hits that perfect balance. It’s relaxing without being boring, creative without the pressure of starting from scratch. You get to pick up a brush, follow the pattern, and by the end, you’ve got a masterpiece that feels 100% yours. For South African students, young professionals, or anyone trying to chill after a long week, it’s an easy way to reconnect with your creative side.
Screen-Free Activities That Actually Stick
Not all hobbies are built for long-term vibes. Some fizzle out after a week. The cool thing about paint by numbers is that it gives you a sense of progress and completion. Unlike binge-watching another series, you actually finish with something tangible, your own wall art. And once you’ve done one, it’s addictive to keep going and collect different designs.
The Creative Trend That’s More Than Just Aesthetic
This isn’t just about ditching screens for the sake of it. It’s about finding balance. Analog hobbies like painting are helping Gen Z cope with stress, build mindfulness, and express individuality in a world where everything feels mass-produced. Posting your finished piece is fun, but the real win is the quiet, hands-on time you spend making it.
How to Get Started
If you’re curious about hopping on this creative trend, start small. Choose a paint by numbers kit that matches your vibe, maybe something minimal for your desk or bold for your bedroom wall. Set aside a couple of hours each week, put your phone on silent, and just paint. You’ll be surprised how good it feels to create without a filter or algorithm telling you what’s trending.
Final Thoughts
For Gen Z, analog hobbies aren’t just a nostalgia trip, they’re a reset button. They remind us that we’re more than our screen time and more than our FYP. So, the next time you feel burnt out from scrolling, try swapping your phone for a paintbrush. Your mind, your mood, and your walls will thank you.