Logging off and liking it

Tony Hansen, LMHC, PHR
King County-EAP Coordinator

Speeding through life in the electronic passing lane can be detrimental – undermining your balance, increasing your stress, and diminishing your natural ability to get things done.  It’s important to know when to switch gears and log off.

The digital revolution has enabled people to do more and more (and more and more and more) in less and less time.  Access to information, news, entertainment, and virtual interactions with friends and family has become mind boggling.  While few people would dispute the benefits of fast access to information, the “always on” connection to cell phones, ipads, cable television, and the Internet also has a downside. 

If the age of electronics enable people to accomplish more in less time, it can also lead us to disengage from the people, activities, hobbies and pursuits which all contribute to a balanced and satisfying life.   The abundance, speed, and efficiency of the modern age can lead human beings to feel uncomfortable with the prospect of unwinding and moving to a slower pace. 

Can you imagine feeling great about doing little except relaxing or recreating on a day off?  Many people cannot.  Do you experience a vague but consistent need to be “connected” and productive at all times?  Can you remember what it feels like to be pleasantly tired from a day of physical activity or several hours of intentional relaxation? 

Speeding through life in the electronic passing lane can be detrimental – undermining your balance, increasing your stress, and diminishing your natural ability to get things done.  Some people find it helpful to schedule ‘Technology Free” weekends or evenings.  Others make it a point to not have the cell phone with them at all times.

It’s important to know when to switch gears and log off.  Give yourself permission to reconnect with the activities, people, and places that recharge your batteries and refresh your perspective.  Enhance your balance and enhance your overall productivity by protecting yourself from the sources of stress in modern life. 

If you want coaching/counseling to help in managing the daily stressors of life, contact the King County- Employee Assistance Program at 1.888.874.7290 to licensed mental health counselors in your area.