The Art of Doing Nothing!

Remember the Old Prestige Pressure Cooker Ad? It proudly claimed to "Create extra leisure" for the homemaker! That was the promise of technology back then—to make us more efficient, to help us finish our chores faster, and to give us more time for things that truly matter. From a humble pressure cooker to the marvels of GenAI, every innovation was supposed to make life easier. But, look around—where is that time for better things?

Our mothers and bhabhis had more time for chit-chat, while we had endless addas with friends at the office or at the neighbourhood nukkad. During my 奥美 days, travel time would be filled with constant chatter, kirtans and people sharing odd jokes. Even in the crowded local trains, we’d strike up conversations with fellow travellers and make friendships that have lasted over two decades!

Today, even though working from home supposedly saves us time, we seem to have no time left for socializing—or even for ourselves. So, who stole this time?

The Time Thieves

Gadgets and tech advancements have indeed made our lives easier—but they’ve also invited sneaky little time thieves that suck away our attention. We scroll through endless reels, consume podcasts of all types, gobble up bite-sized news, and chew on learning capsules, all while believing we're staying “informed” or “productive.” Yet, these activities drain our energy without adding real value. The local trains of today are filled with people cocooned in their own digital bubbles, eyes glued to their screens and ears plugged with headphones. Gone are the spontaneous chats over books or casual conversations with fellow travellers. How can you even get someone’s attention when two out of five senses are perpetually blocked?

Time to Defrag

Remember when our old PCs needed a regular shutdown and defragmentation to work smoothly? This process reorganized data and improved performance. Well, we need to do the same for ourselves. It's time to "defrag" our minds.

The Art of Doing Nothing

Setting aside time to do nothing might seem absurd, but it’s the best form of self-care. Time spent in self-introspection, aimlessly lounging in bed without a phone, or laughing with friends over nothing in particular helps channelize thoughts and refresh our minds. Start small. Trust me, it might feel odd initially, but push through—you'll thank yourself later.

Reclaim Time for Yourself

I began by attempting meditation and gradually moved to using a japa mala (it is easier and swami ji said consistency itself is a great beginning, bhau would come later). While I can’t speak for its spiritual benefits, it’s helped me declutter my mind and sleep better. Reading a book (a real one, not on a phone or tablet!) or you will be tempted to check your WA, Insta every 2 minutes! If you travel often you can try a kindle as well. Taking a walk in a nearby park or lane besides your house without any agenda also helps. Just ensure you are not carrying your phone! Disconnecting, even momentarily, from digital distractions can work wonders.

Reconnect at Work

Instead of constantly being glued to a screen, why not say hello to your colleagues? Drop by their desks, grab a tea or coffee together, or simply hang out in the office cafe. Schedule personal deep work sessions where you’re free from digital interruptions. Jot down random thoughts, doodle, or let your mind wander. You’ll be surprised how often complex problems unravel when you allow your mind space to breathe.

Keep Your Senses Open

During your commute, put away the screens and headphones. Strike up a conversation with a co-passenger if they’re willing. Take a nap if you’re tired. But don’t let yourself get boxed into a digital cocoon where real experiences are sacrificed for virtual noise.

Connect with the Community

Strike up a conversation with your security guard or the receptionist at work. Take the time to speak with the waiter instead of ordering online—visit that local restaurant you've been ignoring. Talk to the shopkeeper, or simply say hello to the stranger you see regularly on your walks. Small acts of connection remind us that the world extends beyond our screens and feeds. They rekindle a sense of belonging and humanity in a world increasingly atomized by tech.

Remember, bring back what matters!

Technology was meant to create more leisure, but we’ve filled our time with tasks that drain our energy and attention. Reconnecting—with ourselves, with our colleagues, and with the community around us—can bring back the meaningful moments that gadgets alone can't offer. Step away from the screens and take back your time. You'll find that life, in its unhurried conversations and quiet moments, is still full of richness waiting to be rediscovered.