The world is a busy place. Cell phones, email, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and so many more that my ‘old self’ doesn’t even know about. Do me a favor – walk into a restaurant or social environment and just watch – people watch – what are people doing? Are they engaging in conversation with each other or distracted with their cellphones? Do you feel people are 100% present in their day to day interactions? Think about that…
Let’s back up; so you can truly follow me.
Three years ago, I made some major lifestyle changes. A HUGE change that has been one of the biggest blessings in my life. If you know me personally, you know what I am talking about. My perception of life changed. My worldview shifted – and ever since, I knew I did not want to miss an experience – miss a moment in life; a moment with my family; my friends, my husband and my children. The deep feeling of joy that I have been able to experience over the past couple years has been indescribable. And of course, I am always looking to continue that growth. I started pondering how I could get the absolute MOST out of every experience?
That statement has stuck in my head and I realized that technology was getting in my way.
So often we get lost in our phones; in the aimless scrolling that goes along with the easy access to technology. Don’t get me wrong. I am not perfect- in fact, that was me! I am writing this because this is something I am constantly being more mindful of – to UNPLUG from the world and be more present in every aspect of life.
So, here are the things I am challenging you to think about… how to ‘unplug’ from the world.
- Set down your phone. I bet you knew that was coming! Just try it. ‘Lose’ your phone for a while. Put it on silent – turn off your notifications and set goals of being ‘cell phone free’ for stretches of time. Start with 30 minutes, then 60 minutes, and just feel how freeing it is! I promise, once you get over the FOMO (feeling of missing out) with your social media, you will feel way more connected and engaged.
- Remove your apps! Could you take Facebook off your phone? I am an introvert at heart. I would be super content with never engaging in conversation. Ever. Seriously, I love to be alone! Social environments overwhelm me. So, my cell phone is easy to hide behind. During this past election I was fed up with the world – once I removed some (not all, I am working on this, too!) social media apps from my phone, I felt WAY more positive. Less bogged down by other people’s comments, posts, negativity and thoughts. Life can be challenging; the last thing we all need is to carry everyone else’s problems. Are you feeling me?
- Get up an hour earlier. I know, you probably think I have lost my mind! My alarm goes off every day at 4:07am. Yep, you read that correctly. Monday – Friday I go to the gym and workout. Saturday and Sunday is the good stuff. I set my alarm to spend a good couples hours to myself. First things first – I make a cup of coffee, turn on the fireplace and chill. Sometimes I goal set and reflect. Other times I catch up on work and emails. Sometimes I bug Dr. Bethany with ideas and thoughts at wee hours in the morning; but God love her – she knows this is when I am most productive. My hour to myself sets the tone for my day. Until I hear the first pitter patter of kids steps coming down the stairs for that first morning hug.
- Reflect. Reflect on your day. Be quiet in your thoughts. Two years ago we moved out to the country. I love the quiet – the sound of the wind on the trees and corn, the sunrises, the wildlife, the stars… The STARS! Oh man, I love to walk outside in the dark early in the morning and just look up at the beautiful sky. I spend a lot of time reflecting. The more I reflect, the more grateful I feel for my life, my friends, my family and our practice members.
Try it; just TRY it!! I want to hear your feedback. Unplug and engage. Believe me, you will be so happy you did! Dr. Niki
