Phones used to have one purpose, to speak to someone who lived a far distance away. As sad as it is, individuals have started to use their phones for activities that older generations would never have expected was even possible.

While we don't often take the time to realize it, we often use our phones for unnecessary or lazy reasons, including:

1. Telling the time.

Whatever happened to using a watch?

2. Keeping track of dates, events, and their calendars.

3. Taking pictures

I give credit to anyone who even owns a polaroid at this point. And don't forget how important it is to take a picture of every meal you eat and post it on Instagram, Snapchat, and on Facebook.

4. Looking up definitions.

Because dictionaries definitely weren't made to actually be used.

5. Asking someone out on a date.

Well, at least it's good news: she whale.

6. Getting advice.

Siri is probably one of the better voices to rely on.

7. Getting to and from specific locations.

Whether you are using the actual compass that comes with the phone, or using an app such as Maps, Waze, or Google, finding directions is always at the touch of a button.

8. Listening to music.

Spotify, iTunes, Soundcloud, and 8Tracks are always there for you.

9. Shopping (for absolutely anything and everything possible).

Clothing shops like Urban Outfitters and PINK established apps that help you order apparel in seconds.

10. Keeping track of bank accounts.

You dread to check your remaining balance, and once you do, you regret ever doing it in the first place.

11. Making excuses for being late.

12. Taking notes, type documents, or make spreadsheets.

You've started to do this instead of using your laptop or a piece of paper.

13. Meeting new people, or even just have a conversation

It's genuinely sad that people have a difficult time socializing in the real world because they're always talking to people through a screen.

14. Reading a book

Kindles make it easy to read anything, even the most recently published newspaper.

15. As a calculator

So you can quickly calculate the grade of the test you just got back.

16. Paying for almost everything

I have to say that when you pay with the Starbucks app and see you have a free drink, it is like finding a golden ticket.

17. Calling a car service

While phones were originally used for making calls, apps like Via, Uber and Lyft allow you to call or request a taxi ride without actually speaking to anyone in the process.

18. Stalking

Your ex, your teachers, the girl you were friends with in the second grade. Whether or not you say you do it, it is inevitable that we all have at some point.

We probably shouldn't use or rely on our phones in the way that we do. While they often make our lives easier, people need to stop using their cell phones to get out or avoid difficult situations. People will not grow to their best and confident potentials if they continue to. Oh, and never forget:

19. Checking the weather.

Well, at least you're not checking the weather the way Karen Smith does.

20. Flashlight

Amazing that people had to go out of there way to by a separate flashlight back in the day.