What I Wish I Knew Before Ditching My Number

[mouakter14]

About two months ago, I decided to ditch my phone number completely—no SIM card, no traditional calls or SMS. It was a big step for me, and while it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made for my mental health and productivity, there are definitely a few things I wish I had known before making the leap. If you’re thinking about going SIM-free or canceling your number, here are some lessons from my experience that might help you prepare.

First, I underestimated how much I relied on SMS for important things like two-factor authentication (2FA) and account verifications. Many online services still use SMS codes to verify your identity, and without a phone number, this became a hassle. I had to switch many accounts to email-based authentication or use authenticator apps like Google Authenticator or Authy. This step took time and a lot of patience, but it’s crucial if you want to avoid getting locked out of your own accounts. So, before special database ditching your number, take inventory of all the services that require SMS and plan your alternatives.

Second, communication without a number demands a shift in mindset. You’ll need to rely almost entirely on Wi-Fi-based messaging apps—WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, email, social media DMs—and make sure your friends, family, and clients know your new way of being reachable. Scheduling calls and meetings becomes more important since you can’t just pick up the phone spontaneously when outside Wi-Fi. Planning ahead and setting clear expectations about how and when you respond really helps avoid misunderstandings. I wish I had communicated this better upfront, as some people initially thought I was ignoring them when I just wasn’t reachable on the traditional phone.

Finally, there’s the reality of emergencies or unexpected situations. Without a phone number, you need to have a backup plan if Wi-Fi isn’t available or goes down. I kept an old phone with a SIM for emergencies and learned to keep it charged and accessible just in case. It gave me peace of mind and allowed me to take the risk of being SIM-free in my daily life without feeling totally disconnected. I’d recommend anyone going SIM-free have a similar safety net.

Overall, ditching my number was freeing and helped me take control over my digital life. But it wasn’t without its bumps. If you’re considering it, prepare for these challenges, and you’ll find the transition smoother and more empowering than you imagined. Going SIM-free isn’t just about disconnecting—it’s about reconnecting on your own terms.