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by khazhoux 1408 days ago
Blunt feedback:

This isn't a startup. You're looking at the intersection of people who:

* Need to get away from distractions.

* Lack self-control to reduce distractions themselves.

* ...but do have discipline to check in regularly to this distraction-detox zone.

* Have something they can do to fill up time that doesn't require connectivity. No google docs, and no streaming music.

* Are not claustrophobic.

* Will visit regularly.

* Will pay.

4 comments

There are centers in India where many people pay for a very very similar concept. They are called "Vipassana" centers ( people are not allowed to talk also ). The whole idea is to detox ( no internet / mobile / even talking ), people collectively do Yoga, and eat/drink all natural food for a couple of days.
Sorry, but shouldn't Vipassana be free..? I have been in few meditation camps in Europe for 10 day silent meditation courses (loved it), but I was told it was free by design..?
If it includes stay, they generally charge some amount. ( Basically Stay + food )
The Dhamma centers I've seen only ask for a donation in the height for what you would have otherwise spent on stay + food, and only ask for a donation if you complete the course.
Opening one yourself and charge nothing should answer your own question.
No need to be snarky. Even the Dhamma website (https://www.dhamma.org/en/index) describes it as free, donation based...
Yeah it needs to get you laid or paid. I’d make it more of a social thing somehow and do a proof of concept ASAP. Otherwise you’re competing with walking out the door without a phone. Which is, like, hmm… maybe?
There's actually a surprising numbers of things one can do without connectivity. My usual routine at a staycation is to (1) first write out everything that comes to my mind -- "emptying" my thoughts. This usually takes up an hour. Then (2) do strategic planning, such as prioritizing to-dos on a 3- to 5-year timeline. (3) do creative work such as writing. Finally (4) rest, or read.
Only way I can see this being profitable is if it's done on a gym-style subscription basis.

You pay $X/mo for access to the service. Your X buys you Y x 2hr slots which you have to book in advance to manage availability.

You can have different tiers for X and Y, but you would need to make sure you have good availability, otherwise people would cancel their subscription if they can never find a good slot.