"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."

- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

#screentime

The Whys and Hows

Retro Feelings: Using Nostalgia Advertising to Engage Generation Z

Most of us have undoubtedly had some form of nostalgia at some point in our lives. A nostalgic walk down memory lane to happier, more carefree days, a sentiment that is triggered in us when we watch a movie, look at a picture, or listen to a song from our childhood.  People are seeking solace and escape in simpler times after the past few difficult years. Whether it was before or after COVID, individuals are experiencing nostalgia like never before.  The 80s fighter pilot and endearing outlaw Maverick has made a reappearance on television.  Y2K(Retro look~ that speaks the britney Era) fashion is expected to continue until 2023, and Kate Bush's 1985 hit song "Running Up That Hill" reached the top of the UK charts in 2022 because of Stranger Things.  What then is the current source of nostalgia? And how can companies use its strength into their marketing plans? The Fashion Industry is also experiencing the wave of sudden changes wherein with 41% asking stores to provide more inclusive sizes and 38% wanting to see a wide range of body types in advertising, Gen Z is calling on corporations to abandon these outdated beliefs as well ~ everyone is looking out for the roots of influence which dated back in 19th century!  In addition, compared to prior generations, this generation is more prone to worry, with social media playing a further role. Leaning into the better and healthier parts of the 90s is vital for companies who are bringing the era back, even if not everything from that era was nice or comforting.  Revival Of Retro Era : Stands Against the test of Time Purchasing used furniture or antique apparel lets you witness the high caliber and skillful craftsmanship that go into making something that will last for many years. Developing your sense for great deals may take some time, but it's crucial to make sure you spend your money on high-quality used items. Generation Z is astute. In reality, they are aware of the characteristics of classic design and are able to distinguish poor quality replicas from fakes. They want to know if the luxury handbags or famous chair design they have their eye on will last throughout time. Nostalgia on Screens:  Not only do past events and relationships evoke sentimentality in us, but media plays a major role in evoking nostalgia across all age groups. According to 46% of consumers, media such as music, TV shows, and movies may all make us feel a certain way. Neither gender nor geography nor generation are relevant to this. Across all of these demographic breakdowns, the top three media genres that evoke nostalgia are movies, TV shows, and music. Over the past several years, nostalgia has taken on various forms in the media. Mulan, Beauty and the Beast, Lady and the Tramp, and other Disney movies from decades past have all been recreated in realistic animation or live action, and many more are in development. It offers viewers a chance to reminisce on memories from their youth with a more open and modern perspective.  Years after the first film was released in cinemas, sequels have also been made available. 36 years after the original 1980s film's premiere, Top Gun: Maverick was a box office blockbuster, taking in $1.488 billion. Avatar 2, directed by James Cameron, debuted in 2022, more than a decade after the first film. Additional sequels are planned, and the film has already surpassed Titanic to become the third most earning film of all time.Some television programs and motion pictures are just set in the last ten years. Stranger Things, for instance, is set in the 1980s and garnered 7.2 billion minutes of streaming in the US between May 30 and June 5 of last year.  The publication of the final two episodes of season four even caused a temporary outage on Netflix. The reason the series has been so popular with Gen Z despite taking place in the 1980s is probably because it depicts an era before the internet, which is somewhat of a novelty to this younger age.  Foward Looking Drive For Simplicity:  While the future can feel very bleak for the under 25s, the desire for nostalgia and simpler times is still felt by Gen Z. This generation is no longer craving fast, new experiences, but instead are slowing down to enjoy the world. Second-hand and used items help to feed the feeling of a simpler time; making young people feel more at ease with the rampant pace of modern times. . . The vintage and secondhand sectors have been growing over the past few years. Given that most consumers are concerned about the human and environmental costs of global manufacturing lines, it seems sense that Gen Z is pining for a return to vintage and used goods. Having said that, it's crucial to remember that, even while nostalgia may be a useful tool, it must be applied correctly to be successful!      

1 Feb 2024
The Whys and Hows

Positive Reads

Unplugging Made Easy: 5 Simple Strategies to Cut Back on Screen Time

In a world where screens have become an integral part of our daily lives, it's no surprise that people are spending more time than ever before glued to their devices. However, excessive screen time has been linked to a number of negative health effects, including eye strain, poor sleep, and even anxiety and depression. If you're looking to reduce your screen time, here are five easy ways to get started. 1. Set Limits: One of the simplest ways to reduce your screen time is to set limits on how much time you spend on your devices. You can use built-in screen time features on your phone or download third-party apps to monitor and limit your usage. 2. Take Breaks: Taking regular breaks from your screen is an effective way to reduce eye strain and prevent burnout. Experts recommend taking a break every 20 minutes or so and looking away from your screen for at least 20 seconds. 3. Turn Off Notifications: Notifications can be distracting and make it difficult to focus on other tasks. Turning off non-essential notifications can help you stay focused and reduce your screen time. 4. Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness techniques can help you become more aware of your screen time habits and reduce your reliance on devices. Try meditating or practicing deep breathing exercises to help you stay focused and centered. 5. Engage in Physical Activity: Engaging in physical activity is not only good for your health but can also help you reduce your screen time. Take a walk, go for a run, or participate in a yoga class to help you unplug and recharge. Incorporating these simple strategies into your daily routine can help you reduce your screen time and improve your overall health and well-being. So, why not give them a try today?

8 Apr 2023
Positive Reads

‘No Screen Time' Rule - Could This Be the Next Global Trend?

One fascinating story has created a buzz on social media after Anand Mahindra, the well-known businessman and prominent social media personality, recently tweeted about it. A village in Maharashtra has imposed a daily 'no screen time' period starting at 7 pm. The story has caught the attention of his Twitter followers, many of whom are considering trying out the concept of a "digital detox" for themselves. The village, Mohite Vadgaon, located in Maharashtra has a population of around 3,000 people, and has implemented this rule to tackle online addiction. In addition to this, the village even has a patrolling team that checks every house to ensure that the rule is being followed. The initiative has also inculcated a culture of spending quality time with family members, which the villagers really appreciate. Mahindra's tweet has sparked a discussion on social media, with many people liking the idea and some saying that they are already following the practice and have benefitted from it. In addition, some people also shared other possible versions of similar practices that could be followed, such as having a 'car-free day' once a week. It is surprising to see that a small village in India has taken such an initiative and set an example for the rest of the world. In the age of digital overload, this practice can be beneficial in maintaining mental and physical health, as well as promoting family time and productivity. The fact that Anand Mahindra himself is experimenting with the idea shows how important it is to have a balance between our screen time and other aspects of our lives.

3 Apr 2023
Positive Reads

How to Limit Screen Time in Children

It is a common practice nowadays to get things done by children with the lure of the mobile or television.  For example, if you want your child to eat, then put his/her favourite show on the screen and food disappears from the plate. However, I wonder whether this is the right thing to do. You will be alarmed to know that there are more than a million cases of ADHD (Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder) and autism in India and according to a renowned doctor, the figures can be brought down considerably by just not giving access to screen in the first three years of a child’s life and restricting screen time in the following years. In present times, I find even toddlers glued to smartphones or tablets almost all the time. This unrestricted screen time can be a hindrance to a child’s mental and physical growth. However, a total ban on screen time may not be feasible, yet one can limit a child’s screen time with the following simple steps Lay down the rules One need not be very harsh on the child while limiting his/her screen time. Explain to the child why other activities like outdoor play, art and crafts are also important. Allocate specific time for television and internet and at other times, try to make your child more productive. Practice what you preach Be a role model for your child. Well known author Robert Fulghum has said – ‘ Don’t worry that children never listen to you; worry that they are always watching you’. So limit the use of gadgets in the presence of children and set a positive example. Education vs entertainment Nowadays, children need to access the net for their projects. Online learning has also almost become an indispensable part of the education system. In these circumstances, it is imperative for parents to help the child understand what is essential for his or her learning process and what can be considered a waste of time. Spending quality time We are living in an era in which technology has become an inherent part of our lives. We must acknowledge the fact that we can use technology to our advantage. Spend your time with your child and together you can surf the internet and help him/her learn new things. Guide them to use the net in a way which broadens their scope of gaining knowledge, identifying their interests and hobbies which may, in turn, help them choose their career in the long run.    By following the above steps, a child will be able to steer clear of excess screen time and avail the benefits of technology by proper use of the internet.  

10 Aug 2019
Positive Reads

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