A Gap Year, A Depth Year

2018 is going to be my gap and depth year. This is a year where I will intentionally focus on deepening my experiences and simplifying my life. Life is too short to be engaged in activities that do not spark joy. While my current job is not dreadful (though the environment is), it consumes a significant portion of my time daily. I desire more space to delve deeper into the values I believe in. Inspired by David Cain’s article “Go Deeper, Not Wider,” I am committed to this transformative journey.

What is a Depth Year?

According to David Cain, a depth year is about restricting oneself from acquiring new hobbies, equipment, games, or books. Instead, it is about finding value in what you already own or have started. The aim is to improve existing skills rather than learning new ones, and to consume media already stockpiled instead of acquiring more.

For instance, you might read your unread books or even revisit your favourites. Instead of taking up a new instrument, you would pick up your guitar and enhance your skills. You might complete the Gordon Ramsay Masterclass you began in April, resisting the temptation to start a new course, even if it’s on sale. The guiding philosophy is “Go deeper, not wider.”

When I read this, I instantly felt that this was what I needed. By setting constraints, we are compelled to focus on what remains. For example, I was able to write this post by imposing a few constraints between 5:00 am and 6:00 am: no extra sleep, no other screens, and no mindless reading. Although this is more of a short-term condition, it truly works. Now, I am challenging myself to maintain this discipline for an entire year.

The Guiding Principles of a Depth Year

Don’t Buy New Things

You already have everything you need. Therefore, no new clothing, shoes, bags, gadgets, furniture, or kitchen appliances. And A’ishah, refrain from trying new beauty products and make-up brands. No more journals, planners, or notebooks, except for items that are genuinely necessary, such as consumables.

Don’t Take Up New Hobbies

Concentrate on writing, decorative journaling (using existing materials), running, and yoga. It’s actually YouTube and Spotify that consume most of my free time.

Don’t Get New Books, eBooks, and Online Courses

Finish what you already have: the books on your shelves, the books borrowed from friends, your hundreds of e-books that you bought and only skimmed through. Complete the online courses you’ve enrolled in on Coursera, or unenroll from those that no longer seem relevant. Address the newsletter lessons stored in that one Gmail folder you promised you would get to. Brush up on French and Japanese instead of starting Spanish and Thai.

Focus, Indulge, and Go Deeper on Current Endeavours

Some may think this approach is extreme and depriving. However, I have been practising simple living and minimalism for over a year, and these settings are not entirely new to me. It’s merely an extra setting – a clearer line and an upgrade. It’s my personal choice, and I assure you, it does not feel like deprivation at all. Instead, it is incredibly freeing.

This does not have to be a year of no shopping for everyone. However, consider the things, relationships, or commitments that you dislike or merely tolerate. If you haven’t already realised, you can try to eliminate these to create more time and space for what truly matters.

The Journey and Its Rewards

Embarking on a depth year is not just about material restraint; it is also an emotional and psychological journey. It challenges you to confront your habits, desires, and the constant noise of consumer culture. By focusing on what you already have, you cultivate a deeper appreciation for your possessions and experiences.

My gap and depth year is about finding joy in simplicity and depth. It is a commitment to personal growth and meaningful living. As I venture into this year, I invite you to reflect on what truly matters to you and consider making space for it in your life.