We all seek that elusive balance in our lives between work and rest. But how do we find that sweet spot such that we don’t burn out yet remain productive? For a start, taking an occasional break from technology and reclaiming your nights, weekends and days off can ironically up your ability to work harder and smarter. Here are five tips on how to effectively unplug, to succeed and thrive.
Out of sight, out of mind – keeping your phone out of reach
Beyond relaxing, unplugging also helps in concentration and focus. When we eliminate our distractions, we can better zone in on the tasks at hand. Leaving your phone in one room while you study in another helps to effectively keep the distracting notifications away, enabling you to truly dedicate a few hours to your work.
Exercise
Staying physically active is another way to truly unplug. Go for a run, do hot yoga, or play a game of tennis with your friends. Without the constant digital connection, you’re forced to focus on your own body and well-being. Moreover, exercise releases endorphins, and you’ll come out healthier and happier.
via SMU Run Team Facebook page
Mindful delegation
The show must go on, with or without you. So do yourself a favour and delegate your workload to colleagues and team members while you’re away. Identify people you trust and have demonstrated aptitude in their work and get them to take on the job for you for the time being, so you can give yourself a peace of mind and truly rest when you most deserve it.
Get enough sleep
Youths may be known for their impervious attitude toward sleep, pulling all-nighters, partying out late, or even just scrolling the internet till wee hours of the morning. Alas, the ultimate way to unplug successfully is the hardest but yet the most important as well – getting enough sleep. Sleeping is our body’s ultimate way to recharge. Even if you end up harassed by dreams of work (or nightmares, rather), at least your body physically recharges itself. Even wildly successful businesswoman, Ariana Huffington learnt this the hard way, having collapsed from exhaustion, cutting her eye and fracturing her cheekbone before. Talk about falling face flat. Take it from the woman that sleep is important.
Get an unplugging buddy
They say there’s strength in numbers, and this too applies to unplugging effectively. It could be your sibling or your co-worker. Whoever it is, set aside time to switch off your phones together for one to two hours a week, and engage in chit chat or a relaxing activity together. This way, you help encourage and remind each other that there’s more to look at in life than your phone screen.
