More and more, I’m seeing 2026 as the year of analog. Where we embrace physicality of analog objects, and real experiences with other people. I can see this in trends that have taken hold — knitting, Mahjong, actual cameras, vinyl records, and so much else.

But I think it goes deeper than that. Will AI impact our lives even more this year? Yep. But my days are spent talking with writers and creators, and I’m seeing trends that have little to do with AI or technology. And something I’ve been considering is this: we have a choice.

As you consider how you will have a year filled with writing, readers, conversations, and moments that matters, I encourage you to consider where you invest your time, and how analog and human experience plays into it.