We push, we drive, we work, we connect, we give, we serve, we plan, we strategize,…and then we burn out. Do you ever get to that point?
When you do try to unplug, you may experience the following:
GUILT
Stress and worry about everything you could be doing.
All-consuming thoughts that make you dive back into work without truly taking a break.
Believe it or not, being available 24/7 isn’t good for your health OR the health of your business.
Below are the results of not being able to unplug from the world for even a little bit each week:
- You end up checking your phone religiously. Did you know that the average mobile user can’t leave their phone alone for six minutes and check it up to 150 times a day!
- You lose the ability to focus. Human Attention Span Shortens To 8 Seconds because of Technology
- You lose the ability to prioritize. Your brain was never intended to have constant stimuli. By being “on” all the time, your brain doesn’t know what is important anymore.
- You can no longer be alone. Our brains become addicted to constant stimuli. We become more hyper-reactive and puts us into a constant state of fight or flight. We start seeking stimuli anytime we are alone.
- We lose the ability to be creative. Downtime gives your brain a chance to recharge. Creativity thrives in an environment where the brain can meander through meaning and expression.
- You’ll sleep better. The blue light from screens tells your brain to stay alert, and can make it hard to fall asleep. Try not using a device at least an hour before bed to give your brain time to relax.
The benefits of unplugging for 24 hours are well worth the time!!
You will become more alert, focused, be happier, have more energy, be more engaged with family and clients and be more clear on your actionable steps. You will regain a piece of yourself by unplugging
Here are a few ways to unplug:
- Turn off all technology at a set time of the night.
- Take one day off per week from all technology.
- Schedule technology breaks in the middle of the day.
- Leave your cell phone in your car or office for lunch meetings.
- Leave your cell phone off during client meetings and staff meetings.
- Stop multi-device tasking. If you are on a conference call, focus on that call. Turn off the other screens.
- Make your bedroom a technology free zone.
- Turn off technology during family time
- Start a meditation practice.
- Read a book
- Get a hobby (that doesn’t require technology). If you have other interests, you won’t be as attached to your devices.
- Spend more time with other people.
Unplugging can be one of the best ways to recharge and regain focus, energy, connection to others and yourself.
As a business owner myself, I know that being online and in touch is key to success. It keeps you connected with clients and potential clients, informs you of new trends and allows you to stay competitive within your industry. BUT, it can also keep you up at night, distract you from making objective decisions and prevent you from enjoying family, friends and hobbies.
So this holiday season make an effort to unplug and maybe make it a new years resolution to add it to your weekly schedule. Your family and business will thank you for it!