Technology has replaced jobs all over the world, it’s also been necessary for multi-
taskers to be able work 24/7 from anywhere they are… at any given time. Smartphones,
netbooks, slim laptops, and other gadgets have taken over the lives of many, giving new
meaning to the word ‘workaholic.’ It is a constant world of staying connected while
checking emails, text messages, social media alerts and tracking friends as well as
lovers, all from some sort of electronic device. But is this harmful to the general
population? It’s been proven through studies everywhere (Universities such as
Michigan, Maryland and others), that if people don’t take the time to ‘Unplug’ … it can
be harmful when trying to develop our minds, retaining pertinent information and
growing as individuals…we all need to take time to rest. It would be like going to the
gym to work out 7 days a week without a break; our muscles would tire and at times
break down without the proper rest. Our brains’ all need recovery time, to destress and
take in quiet time, including activities such as walking outdoors in a park or on the
beach, listening to music and more, all of which gives us that boost and spark in brain
power.
Keeping things real in life today… takes time and discipline, especially when it comes to
our electronic gadgets. Spending more time having actual conversations person to
person, rather than texting or messaging should be as important as leaving your device
behind when going out to eat with others, and turning them off when in a theater, show
or play…simply put, ‘Unplug.’ So many are addicted to their handheld devices they
should seek out a ‘Digital Detox’ vacation this summer. I had no idea that these types of
getaways existed, but then again…there are lots of things I’m still learning in this field.
California has a few places that caters to this type of retreat, including real-life
experiences, healthier meals, and spa treatments. Then there are the islands, like the
Caribbean, it’s easier to unplug in beautiful surroundings with limited digital services,
and being off the grid so-to- speak. I know for myself, I enjoy being off the grid, and the
feeling of being ‘free’ is as exhilarating as it gets. That’s what I love about cruising on a
ship in the middle of the ocean, no worries, no gadgets and the feeling of warm breezes
on my sun-kissed face…that’s the life I’m talking about! We all need a break from digital
devices… and while I can discuss this over and over again, there will always be those
people that won’t agree; some for the sake of their jobs I suppose. Unplugging should
be as vital as taking a prescription when you’re ill and need it to get better.
There is now something called the ‘National Day of Unplugging’ which is designed for all
walks of life, everywhere…in order to slow down the hectic lives of millions. It will take
place in 2017, March 3-4 th and you can check out more related information at
www.nationaldayofunplugging.com . I would also like to share another wonderful site
that I found full of exciting ways to detox for individuals as well as companies, not to
mention very news worthy, www.digitaldetox.org , Browse through some of the articles,
because they are worth the read. As for me, I will choose to ‘unplug’ on that national
day, but I also do so on my vacation, it keeps me grounded. Now if we can just get the
younger generation to understand the importance of unplugging occasionally, it might
help bring people together by communicating more efficiently with one another, while
engaging in the ‘real’ world. It would help better relationships with friends, families, co-
workers and employers; and who doesn’t want that today? I’m all in!
Make your week count.
