By Ross Rutman, Assistant Vice President – Habitational
The modern world of technology can be overwhelming at times, with information overload hitting you from every direction. Little wonder, therefore, that there’s a growing trend to unplug with the intention of being able to properly recharge.
However, not everyone agrees that unplugging is a good idea if you want to relax, suggesting instead that the worry about what might be happening while you are unplugged is counterproductive. Here’s a closer look at unplugging and recharging and whether it’s all it’s cracked up to be.
What’s the Concept?
Also known as a digital detox, unplugging to recharge is all about taking a proper break from your devices. This means having a proper rest from the constant flow of information without the incessant interruptions that a network of devices can bring.
The idea is that without ongoing notifications and communications from work and the outside world, you will be free to really engage in the moment and relax. Waiting for the phone to ping or getting distracted in the latest social media events can prevent individuals from truly unwinding.
Surely This Is a Good Idea?
Not everyone is a believer in the concept, and some critics go as far as to say that it can be counterproductive. This is because if all you do when you switch off your phone is worry about what you might be missing, you may as well just stay plugged in.
Those who eschew the notion of unplugging are, in general, successful businesspeople who thrive on the buzz of being on the cutting edge of developments. They believe that the stress of being deluged when you return, plus the impact of being unavailable for key clients, instantly wipes out any benefits that you may have gained by unplugging completely.
Instead, they advocate “low voltage” connections during family holidays and personal time. This means still checking emails and answering those which are critical, thereby removing the stress of worrying about what’s going on.
Taking Time for You
Although there may be a flood of work waiting for you when you return, if you’re organized enough to delegate and communicate any upcoming absence, there’s no reason why this shouldn’t be manageable. The benefits of being totally off-grid more than make up for catching up with work when you return.
Unplugging doesn’t have to be for extended periods to be beneficial. You could unplug for a family holiday or go off-grid to simply enjoy a night off to unwind. The benefits to your mental health and well-being cannot be overstated and will give you the chance to experience an uninterrupted connection with both your inner self and your loved ones.
Return Recharged
The factor that the critics don’t adequately consider is the benefits of returning from your digital detox feeling recharged and ready to go. Having some space to relax and unwind doesn’t just help you personally. It also allows you to return to the workplace with a fresh mind and renewed enthusiasm, helping to boost your performance in the long run. However, the one thing everyone agrees on is that if you want it to work, you have to commit to being unplugged and relax during the experience. Allow the silence to wash over you and savor the peace. Only then will unplugging and recharging really give you the benefits you’re looking for.
