The Importance of Unplugging
In today's 24/7 world, it's easy to feel like you can never really take a break.
There's always someone who needs to be emailed, or a project that needs your attention. But here's the thing: if you're constantly working, you're never truly able to focus on anything or certainly key tasks at hand.
That's why it's so important to unplug from time to time, even if it's just for a long weekend. Trust us, your work will still be there when you get back and chances are, you'll be able to approach it with fresh eyes and a renewed sense of energy.
Schools are back and summer holidays for most are over but as we head into another crazy event "season" it's incredibly important to remember those afternoons when you switched off and headed out to enjoy the sunshine with friends, go for a bike ride, run along the coast or do whatever it is you did you unwind and enjoy the summer sun.
Remember how good the sun on your face felt?
Don't forget it as we head into another busy period of events and exhibitions.
Why You Need to Unplug
You might think that taking a break will make you less productive, but that's not the case. In fact, studies have shown that taking regular breaks can increase productivity. When you're constantly working, you're not giving your brain a chance to rest and recharge. As a result, you're more likely to make mistakes and have trouble focusing. But when you do take that coveted break, even if it's just for a few hours, you're giving your brain the chance to reset itself.
How to unplug for yourself
So how do you go about unplugging? If it was that simple, everyone would be doing it right?
It doesn't have to be an expensive holiday. It doesn't have to be a long weekend. It can just be an hour each day (remember those forced lunch breaks at school where you just got to play and run wild?!), or half an afternoon in a week where you're not just disconnected from work, but also from the internet.
That means no checking email, no social media, no news websites, no phone calls. Just sweet sweet offline time.
Disconnecting from technology gives you the chance to recharge both mentally and physically. It allows you to take a few minutes to yourself to clear your head and recentre your thoughts. Once you're feeling refreshed, you'll be able to approach the crazy event season with a whole new level of energy and focus.
Top 5 tips for unplugging from events and technology
1. Schedule some "me" time: Make sure to schedule at least an hour each day for yourself. This is time where you can do whatever you want, without having to worry about work. If you use a tool like Calendly, ensure to block out the "me time" in your diary so you can't be interrupted.
2. Set boundaries with your work: Let your boss know that you will not be available during certain hours of the day/week. Event organisers are desperate to ensure they support their teams mental health, and you may be surprised how willing they are to help support you in your activities.
3. Take a break from social media: One of the best ways to unplug from work is to take a break from social media. Not just Twitter, TikTok or Instagram, but all other apps on your phone. Leave it at home if you have to but tune into perhaps that book you'd been meaning to read all summer instead.
4. Get outside: Spend some time in nature, go for a walk, or just sit in the park and people watch. Being outside will help you to clear your head and relax and if you're looking for inspiration, there's no greater place to get it than the great outdoors.
5. Do something completely different: Use your "me" time to do something that you don't normally do. This can be anything from taking a cooking class to going rock climbing. Doing something different will help to take your mind off work and allow you to relax.
In conclusion
We all know that the event season is a busy time, but it's important to remember to take some time for yourself. By unplugging from work, even for just a few hours each week, you'll be able to approach the craziness with a renewed sense of energy and focus. Make sure to schedule some "me" time into your diary and take a break from the events for an afteroon, even if it is just for a cup of tea outside.
If anyone wants to go for a walk and a talk… give me a shout.
Matt - Waves Connects