As the new year ushers in a time for us to reflect on our past, it also allows us to think about ways to refresh our minds with new, creative ideas. Have you ever thought about temporarily disconnecting yourself from all forms of Internet, social media, apps, text, social and email? Whew, that's a lot I know. Well, have you? No, I am not crazy. I am totally serious. Think of disconnecting as a way to release some stress and anxiety that are not helpful. You just may improve your health and your business.
By disconnecting, it allows new, creative ideas to enter into your mind that renew, refresh and invigorate your brain which may be on information overload. You may also find a new source of energy from this as well. Believe it or not, some people think that staying connected all the time helps to multitask more effectively.
How long can you go without checking email, or glancing at your smartphone? Clifford Nass, a psychology professor at Stanford University, says today's nonstop multitasking actually wastes more time than it saves, and he says there's evidence it may be killing our concentration and creativity too.
- NPR.org
The Social Media and Smartphone Vice
Most people can't break the habit of the social media and smartphone vice that has dominated them for so long. I get it; I am one of those people that have a hard time just letting go. Every time I think about trying to disconnect, at first the thought sounds great, but then I think, "I will miss something" so I don't disconnect at all. I soon forget about my great idea of disconnecting myself from all the tempting goodies that come with my smartphone. It doesn't take long before I am right back to the normal 24x7 information flow from device to my brain that causes my stress and anxiety...ugh.
If you don't feel like you are one of these people, good for you. You are not one of the millions who are addicted to their smartphone. Here's an article that brings to the forefront some of the facts about smartphone use. I must admit, it's pretty scary. The article brings to light that over the next five years, 141.94 days of your life will be spent on the smartphone.
Do Yourself A Favor - Take A Rest
Here's what I mean. Take frequent breaks from the 24x7 information flow and immediacy riddled anxiety it produces. This is an all-consuming activity that needs to stop once in a while. In my experience, I had to release myself from all electronic devices that are addictive for me. My iPhone, iPad and laptop are the biggest offenders. When I disconnected for 2-3 days or more, I felt energized and new ideas started flooding into my brain. The cool thing here is, I didn't even have to tell my brain to create new ideas, it automatically happens. Wow, imagine that.
Disconnect With No Agenda In Mind
Don't go into this disconnection time with an agenda other than unplugging completely from the world that dominates your mind and rules your every waking moment. Think about it this way. When your brain or your body are bored or need stimulation, what is the first thing you do? You go to the Internet, smartphone and social media drug that makes you feel better again right? Yeah, I thought so.
Research has shown that our electronic devices dominate many of us. Men and women of all ages are affected. Maybe you are not one of these people. If you, like me, and you realize that your time is being dominated by your devices, take a break for a few days every now and then. The benefits of disconnecting far exceed the thoughts and potential disadvantages of not being connected at all.
Related Article:
•Is Your Smartphone Your Best Friend - Seriously?
Photo Credit: HubSpot