UNPLUGGING
Does Unplugging
To Recharge
Really Work?
T
he 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.
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.
WHAT’S THE CONCEPT? TAKING TIME FOR YOU
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. 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.
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 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. +
BY: ROSS E. RUTMAN, CLCS, CPIA
ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT
JGS INSURANCE
Ross Rutman began his career in the
property management industry 13 years
ago.
While working within various
departments including operations,
information technology, condominium
management and insurance; Ross
decided to pursue his passion and
joined JGS Insurance. For the past three
years Ross has represented the JGS
marketing team by working alongside
our sales, service and management side
of our business. He strives to provide a
consultative approach and proactive
services to our clients.
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