I don't think anyone noticed, but I took a week off from doing anything that was related to the internet. Yes, I needed a little break to declutter my mind + inner being. I felt that I had been so BUSY, but only to realize that nothing that I set out to do or projects that I needed to complete, was getting accomplished. Ever feel that way?
Sometimes we need to step away from all the constant clutter that modern technology has brought upon us with all the emails, browsing, social marketing, etc. It can get a little too time + thought consuming on top of all the work I have to do as a designer along with the family + household responsibilities. Suddenly it can become an overwhelming struggle to maintain balance in life and leave some of us in a state of exhaustion and frustration which can lead to an unhealthy lifestyle and even worse, can compromise our relationships with our children, husband, and/or loved ones. I found myself occasionally on the verge of becoming emotionally drained as I struggled to fulfill all the demands of work, family, and marriage. So, it was a necessity for me to take a week off and focus on the more important priorities at hand. I had come to that instant realization that I can live without the internet, but I cannot live without my family. I love them too much and it's highly important for me to show them that their existence is far more valuable then my work or hobbies. Plus, having a break from time to time will keep me sane, healthy and happy!
So, was it easy to fight the temptation to do what I was so used to doing routinely, day in and day out? Yes, to my surprise it was, although I did have little urges, I felt such a difference within the first day that it didn't seem as hard as I initially thought it would be. I got to tackle some household chores, organized our office files, read some very inspirational business + self improvement books, spent extra quality time cuddling + playing with my boys, watched some of my favorite shows, carried long, meaningful conversations with my hubby, and simply just R E L A X E D. I found this freedom + peace within and it was great because it allowed me to gain creative insight towards new + fresh ideas for my career goal and business and I also had time to meditate and spend time with God, which uplifted and strengthened my spirit. Also, it's funny how too much computer information + multitasking can prevent you from thinking clearly + discovering our true hidden potential. Time for yourself gives you the chance to nurture your inner being, look deep within, and find answers to questions you've been pondering for so long... Suddenly, light bulb pops up in your head or that AHA! moment breaks through.
So, now that I'm back online, I feel that I no longer desire to get caught up in the same cycle, but from now on, I am going to spend at least one week a month, retreating from the internet + anything work related. It's my way of keeping my life balanced + finding harmony in my life + relationships. It may not work for everyone, but it works for me and I'm so thrilled that I now know a system that will work for my lifestyle and will keep me + my family healthy, happy, and be able to keep doing what I love without the guilt.
If you want to know some specific things I did to keep me offline, here are some of the few steps I took:
- Deactivated my Facebook account (it's temporary, so you can reactivate it by logging back on)
- Removed my Facebook app on my iphone.(if you have an iphone)
- Didn't reply to emails unless it was extremely important.
- Made a list of tasks/projects that I've been wanting to tackle.
- Made a point to keep myself accountable with my husband. (he was so supportive, thanks hon!)
- Went to my local book store and read or bought some to take home to read.
- Made extra plans with kids + family to spend time together.
XOXO,
Dahlia
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