Written by on March 15, 2009 – 8:00 pm
I was at the spa the other day using the pool, the steam room, the jacuzzi. I had set aside that time to relax and unwind and maybe drink a cup of tea or two in the process. When I arrived, I saw a 20-something woman sitting in the waiting room restlessly flipping through a magazine. I almost felt bad interrupting her as I got a cup of tea to take in the changing room.
Fast forward about 45 minutes. I was done sitting in the jacuzzi and about to shower when I noticed the same girl. She had changed out of her spa robe and into her street clothes and was sitting on a stool by the sink. Texting. I grabbed my things and took a shower and got out. She was still texting. I changed and got dressed and she was - texting. In a spa. She was still texting as I left.
She couldn’t seem to unplug, even for an hour.
I almost put myself into a similar situation. Now, I don’t text but I LOVE to write. Feeling edgy about getting my tax information compiled, I decided to change my system of organization. I came very close to buying one of those small computers that looks like a PDA. The more I researched, the more I realized that the most expensive ones fit my needs. I took a little trip to Staples to look at a few. I came very close to knowing which one I wanted.
And then - wait a minute. Why is it a good thing to have my business in my purse?
I saw the light. It isn’t a good thing. I was about to turn myself into that woman at the spa. I can’t imagine sitting there in the spa trying to relax or hike or whatever knowing that my work is in my bag. Can you imagine? Rushing a summit because I wanted to sit and type one more page on whatever project I was working on… No thank you.
No related posts.
Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.
Good reason to NOT have a blackberry or some such device. I have been avoiding these devices because my compulsion to check e-mail would ruin my life
It’s good to avoid them! It’s much better to live.
I don’t think the two can coexist very easily.
I don’t work on vacation. Still, I can’t bring myself to leave my computer at home. I don’t know what I would do without my laptop or the Internet. I’ve only had a laptop for about three years, and sometimes, I have to remind myself to unplug and give my mind a break. It’s sad
I can’t leave my computer at home when I’m gone for any length of time. Not just because I work 100% online, but I communicate with so many people online.
The other day I was lying at the doctor’s office, in the dark, having my 30-minute acupuncture treatment. Random things kept popping into my head and I kept telling them to go away so I could concentrate.
Next thing I know, I realize I’m telling myself, “What am I doing? I don’t have time to lie here. I’ve got stuff I NEED to do!” and I almost pulled the needles out of myself.
Took a deep breath, closed my eyes, and started dealing with those random thoughts popping into my head, once again.
Told myself I NEED that time each week.
Valencia, I need to remind myself of the same - though I’ve gotten better. Technology is a habit in a way and habits ARE breakable.
Bee, I love that little anecdote - you had a similar experience then as the woman who was texting! But, you told yourself to stop it - she didn’t. This world puts our brains in a state of overdrive!
Hi Katherine, you have a nice site. My family and friends say I’m a computer geek, because I am always on the computer, though they call me to fix their computer.
I am always continuing to learn about everything related to computers, applications, etc.. just isn’t enough time. Just started on Twitter and Facebook.
I also have to force myself to stop and shut down. I do take my laptop on vacation at times, but I usually just check email, surf, play around now on Facebook & Twitter, or whatever, but no work. When I scheduled “me-time” to get nails, hair, massage, or a nap, I shut everything down, cell, computers, etc… I am so “plugged” as you say!! Going to read some of your other ‘Musings’.
Have a nice day.. Valerie
Hi Valerie, thanks for stopping in and for your compliment! Yes, in this society, we have to remember to unplug once in a while. But even the best of intentions fall apart at times! I’ve rummaged in my purse more than once to answer a call at the nail salon. It isn’t healthy. At least I shut the thing off when getting a massage or facial, though.
I completely understand the struggle. I am also thankful I’m not as bad as that girl who texted the whole time I had my appointment!