One of my colleagues, used to be available at all times by phone and computer, day or night. This was creating stress and kept her constantly ‘wired up’ and on duty. Running on adrenaline is exciting, but ultimately destroys your health. She now keeps the ringers turned off on all her phones in both her home and her office; she doesn’t accept voicemail on her cell phone and rarely takes email while traveling so she can enjoy the journey. She checks her phone and her email once or twice a day maximum, at her convenience. Taking charge of her email and phones gives her control, eliminates unnecessary distractions, creates greater effeciency as she batches her emails and calls, and eliminates poor decision making caused by reacting too quickly under stress. Our “do it now” culture is extremely stressful and ultimately unproductive. Why are you letting your email and phones run your life? You can use technology to your advantage by taking charge and deciding when you’ll respond. You may need to advise a few people as to your new mode of operation if coleagues are used to an immediate response.
Homework:
Turn off your phone ringers and set everything to go to Voicemail on all your phones, including your cell phone. Notice the peace that instantly appears in your life! Set your email to go directly into file folders and handle it once or twice a day maximum. When you take your next vacation, do without a computer or ipad. Unplug yourself electronically and you may find you finally relax. After all, the point of a vacation is to relax and refresh yourself, leaving your work behind so don’t bring it with you. They’ll appreciate you more when you return as a bonus!
10 Minute Option:
Same as above.
Enjoy the peace!
Talane
