Could you survive without your phone for half a day?A few weeks ago, I shared a story about losing my phone in a box of paper whilst packing up after an event and how the anxiety of that generated a whole lot of “what if’s”.
I don’t think I’m alone in saying I’ve come to rely on my phone for everything from checking the time (or people’s highlight reels) to staying connected, paying for things, and getting from place to place. Even accidentally leaving my phone at home safe on my kitchen bench can generate a whole raft of stress.
To be honest, choosing to spend 4 hours with my phone, by choice, felt like a big stretch.
…..
Here’s the thing…. last weekend I did just that. Yes, entirely by choice, I checked my phone at the door of an event dedicated to unplugging and engaging in 4 hours of tech-free activities (worst of all, I couldn’t take photos to prove that I did it!)
The first part of the event was dedicated to personal, introspective time, accompanied by a live harpist. I chose to paint, draw, and do blackout poetry. It was bliss to spend time in a space where everyone was doing their own thing and yet felt entirely connected. I often see people experience this when they participate in my workshops, and it was very empowering to experience it myself.
Once the harp soundtrack ended, we were encouraged to connect with others in the room. I’m no stranger to meeting or connecting with people, but chatting with others without the distraction (or excuse) to hide behind a device brought a sense of peace and presence (even if paying for food was tricky for some people!).
On my way home, I thought a lot about how often we fill spaces with words and noise because silence feels awkward. That we feel the necessity to be “on” when we’re around others. Yet in total reverse, we often forego opportunities to connect or have conversations with people we don’t know by hiding behind the safety of a screen.
But above all, I thought about how my brain and my body felt after 4 hours of nobody being able to contact me (heads up, it was good!).
….
In workshops, I share the power of the 3P’s. The first of which is pressing.
Being accessible 24/7 creates a trap where we believe everything is urgent and that we need to be ready to respond at any moment. Being on high alert makes our brains believe everything is an emergency – even when it’s not – which generates feelings of overwhelm and burnout.
The offline experience was a great reminder of how important it is to put the rest of the world on hold for a while and replace pressing with presence, even for just a few hours.Do you know what the other two P’s are? Here’s to a week of finding opportunities to unplug.
Bel.
Every Sunday afternoon, Bel sends the Ignite community a personal note of encouragement – reflection, inspiration, stories, and sharing. It’s our way of helping you prepare for the week ahead. Add your details here to receive Here’s The Thing in your inbox.