Feeling "Laggy"

The word "lag" has been around since at least the 1500s, indicating a condition of being late or behind, or slowness. However, the word "laggy" is relatively new to human language, originating in the early 1990s as a term that was used almost exclusively to denote the delayed or slow response experienced when using computers or the internet. What is interesting, though, is as technology has become integrated into the fabric of our everyday lives, terms like these have started to cross back over to describe more organic phenomena and human experiences. "Laggy" is one of these that tends to resonate for many.

When we think of a computer connection being laggy, it tends to conjure images of a screen that is moving forward in halting steps, of graphics that never quite come to full clarity, of response times that drag far behind the pace at which we wish to execute. How easy is it to translate these images to a metaphor about our own energy and capabilities sometimes? Do you ever feel as though you are moving ahead much more slowly than you'd like, or having to "process" so much of your day-to-day life that it's hard to visualize your next steps with clarity? People can get laggy too!

I would be the first to argue that, as humans, the depth and complexity of our existence and experiences could never be reasonably compared to any piece of technology. That being said, when it comes to "lag", there are some key things we can apply from the tech world to our own well-being and success. Here are just a few:

1. When was your last "re-start"? Have you ever been troubleshooting an issue on your computer, and finally just shut it down in frustration because none of your solutions are solving the issue? And then, magically, it just works again upon restart? This is because, with technology like computers, many processes run in the background and when they are never ended, they use up large amounts of resources, causing your computer to slow. And...you guessed it - the same thing can happen to us! When we are working hard day after day, attending to a multitude of responsibilities on an ongoing basis without any meaningful breaks, our internal systems can get worn down too. If you are feeling "laggy", a "re-start" could be just what your body and mind need for restoration. This could look like a "brain break" for quiet time in the middle of the day, a commitment to a full and restful nights' sleep, a weekend away, etc. Anything that helps you feel refreshed and renewed can have a significant positive impact on your day-to-day functioning.
2. Too many active programs running - On a computer, every program takes up memory space and processing power. The more active programs running, the more overloaded (and slower) the system becomes. How does this translate to our human experience? Well...think of everything that is on your plate today. Ask yourself honestly - is it too much? If you're feeling like you are constantly being pulled in multiple directions and you don't have the mental space, physical stamina, or emotional energy to keep up with it all, it may be time to reflect on how you can re-prioritize your responsibilities. What activities, responsibilities, or commitments are the most important for you, and which others might be able to come off your list (or at least delayed)?
3. Programs running in the background - When it takes seemingly forever to load up your computer, this can sometimes be because there are too many programs running in the background, causing it to be slow from the get-go. Does this feel familiar on a human level? We all have those mornings where we wake up already tired, or maybe even longer stretches or periods where exhaustion just seems like it's the norm rather than the exception. If you are experiencing this, self-reflection can be key here. What "programs" might be running in your background that could be unknowingly slowing you down? Are there worries, intrusive or limiting thoughts, or internal narratives that keep surfacing for you? This may indicate that your mind is ruminating on thoughts that need your attention so they are no longer running unchecked in the background. Making a plan to notice when recurrent thoughts pop up, keeping a journal, and actively addressing these background thoughts (e.g. through reflection, making an action plan, seeking out a coach or mentor, etc.) will empower you to "give permission" to the thoughts you are allowing to take up your mental space and energy.

We all can get "laggy" - it's important to remember that we as people need to recharge and reboot sometimes too. Please Comment if you have other tips to share for increasing energy and productivity!

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