Down and Out or Why Unplug // Part I

I feel a bit like an old man curmudgeon. Harking back to a simpler time. Pining for the days pre-tether.

I’m no luddite. I am not a technophobe in the least. I just feel the pain and sadness of the technology tether frequently.

Technology has made sure we almost never part ways with it. Apps and online tools connect us in a way that engages and enriches our lives – it also distracts and cheapens our lives and experiences. We are bombarded by distraction. Bombarded. 

Why do we crave distraction?

Why are we so reticent about our frequency to engage with technology or inability to unplug? Why do we give up focus, mastery, and slow? Because slow creates space and space is scary. Space creates an opportunity for unknown and uncertainty. If you sit with the space long enough the gift is creativity and clarity. But sitting with the space can be painful, frustrating, and dull. Distraction is the antidote to space but not the prescription for health and well-being (personally or professionally).

Take a few moments to watch the video below. It’s seamless shift from satire to honesty is expertly blurred. So much so that well, you’ll see.

Part II of ‘Down and Out or Why Unplug’ will take a closer look at the impact on our brain chemistry while tethered and a couple of options we can implement to dampen our dependence without completely unplugging from the grid.

Want to keep reading about our relationship with technology and the gift of taking prescribed sabbaticals? Read Moving at the Speed of Human.