Too plugged in? Help is near...
Every once in a while, I feel way too plugged in. Whether it’s Facebook, Twitter, or my iPhone, there are days I just don’t want to hear about it. I don't want to check in. I just don't want to know. I’m not a therapist – though I play one in the office – but I think this is probably healthy. For all the time I spend telling people that the real estate industry is changing and that making relationships through social media is important, I also believe that unplugging can be a good thing.
Why? Because, at least for me, I think it’s becoming almost an obsessive behavior, and I’m pretty sure when the word "obsessive" is used to describe anything having to do with behavior, it's not such a good thing.
So, here is a list of quick remedies that will help you shut off:
1: Don’t look:
When you’re having a meeting with someone and your iPhone, Android, or Blackberry buzzes, beeps, twirls, or vibrates – IGNORE IT. Don’t look down, don’t pick it up and see who it is, and don’t, for all that is right and holy, answer it or text back in front of said person. There is nothing more disrespectful than ignoring the person in front of you for a person who is not. This activity alone can help remedy our illness and free us from the shackles of our electronic captors. Also, the person in front of you will notice. And that can make all the difference!
2. Your kids are watching:
How many times have you been out with your kids, at the playground, even at their school, and you get that text or email? Choice: Look at Facebook comment, or keep playing with or talking to your child? I know. Looking just takes a fraction of a second, but it gets noticed, and all of those fractions of seconds add up. So, when you are spending time with your kids, leave the device in the car (or somewhere out of sight, anyway). Believe me, the act will make a huge difference to them … and to you.
3. Meal time:
Make yourself a new rule. When you are having dinner with someone, turn the damn phone off. It’s rude and inconsiderate to play with your toys at the table, even if you are just reading the weather update that is being pushed to your email.
These are just a couple ways you might try to pull yourself away from the tether. I hope it helps – after all, just admitting you have a problem is a huge first step!
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