I’ll go through phases of digital separation, which I enjoy for various reasons. If I’m on top of blogging, I can have a week’s worth of posts done in two days, schedule them to go, and forget about signing back on. Someday I’ll take every post idea I have scribbled in notebooks, compile them onto a master list, and just write one post (or more) for each until I’m done.
That said, there are plenty of other things that keep me connected. My daily practice of language learning. I use the duolingo app, as well as physical books, so I could miss a day. But the streak system is something the app uses to keep you engaged.
Email, television, eReader – it all adds up.
A few years back I read Pedram Shojai’s The Urban Monk, and in it he suggested doing a one day a week digital detox. Also, if I recall correctly, he didn’t speak on Sundays to further work on his mindfulness.
Google “unplugging” and you’ll come up with a number of articles, such as The Pointlessness of Unplugging, Unplugging Isn’t Easy Now, and by 2026 It’ll Be Even Tougher, and The Benefits of Unplugging from Electronics.
Of course, during the past six months it’s been easier than ever to be glued to our devices. Following the news, working from home, virtual schooling, and the list goes on. No matter how easy having these devices have made certain aspects of our life, it’s important to remember that there is a cost to their convenience. Don’t forget to get out and smell the roses every now and then. Listen to the bird song, or enjoy some sunshine and a good book.
There’s a whole world out there beyond the screens.
Michael's Musings 