Gallery
Experiment overview
A post-COVID exploration of alternative ways of living that emerged from questioning whether our current systems truly serve us well, particularly in times of crisis.
This deeply personal experiment involved deliberately stepping outside conventional systems, from technology use to economic exchange, all that to discover firsthand what alternatives might look like in practice.
Main objectives
Following the pandemic’s revelation of systemic vulnerabilities, I embarked on a practical investigation of alternative living approaches.
I switched to a basic phone to understand my technological dependencies and learn to navigate without constant connectivity.
I experimented with barter economies, exchanging clothing and services instead of using money. This project also led me to explore alternative energy systems and sailing as I searched for more self-sufficient ways of living, partly motivated by concerns about potential future disruptions.
Driven by the fear of system collapse I even temporarily lived near an aeroclub to better understand and learn gliding, exploring another dimension of self-reliance and alternative transportation.
Achieved results
Living these alternatives firsthand showed me where my own dependencies truly lay, I had to re-learn basic interactions like asking strangers for directions instead of checking maps on my phone.
Through bartering clothes and services, I experienced both beautiful exchanges and uncomfortable power dynamics when money wasn’t involved, giving me practical wisdom about alternative systems that no book could provide.
Main reflection
This immersive journey taught me that alternatives aren’t about complete rejection but thoughtful integration. My prepper mindset - driven by technological anxiety and apocalyptic thinking - ultimately proved less valuable than finding balance and kindness in world around me.
I discovered the delicate boundaries in alternative exchanges, where the absence of money can sometimes create dependency relationships vulnerable to exploitation. But most importantly I realized that the World isn’t as fragile as my fears suggested.
While I’ve returned to conventional systems in many ways, I’ve kept the most valuable elements from this exploration: sailing, intentional technology use, and a deeper understanding of what truly works beyond mainstream approaches.