Steel Plus Network Connections Issue 3 | Page 18

Does Unplugging To Recharge Really Work ?

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 .
WHAT ’ S THE CONCEPT ?
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 .
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 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 unplugged 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 .
TAKING TIME FOR YOU
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 .
And the benefits of being totally off-grid more than make up for catching up with work when you return .
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 factor in 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 . +
18 • STEELPLUS . COM