As I sit waiting for my flight at the Denver airport, I am struck by the busy but disjointed scene around me. The gentleman next to me has been surfing the web nonstop for an hour. All but one person out of about twenty at United Airlines Gate B82 are hooked into computers, cell phones, iPads, or a Kindle (including me as I write this blog). No smiles, no conversation.
Estimated reading: 3 minutes
Have We Replace True Connection with Technology?
I remember the warm conversations I’ve had on past travels—delightful exchanges with a dad traveling with his kids, a student on her way home for spring break, a businesswoman who gave me a crash course in wardrobe-building. Was that only a few years ago?
It still astounds me how quickly we have become tech junkies, and how completely.
Tech addiction is a challenge that will not be disappearing any time soon. Technology is a huge advantage and an incredible tool, but boundaries around its use are definitely needed.
In "The UnAmerican Dream“ by Carlos Hidalgo, the author states,
"Fulfillment in life and work is not about balance, it's about boundaries. One of the big lessons is: we should take pride in our work and we should work hard, but we shouldn't make it the center of all things.”
One thing I know for sure is that we have a choice where to put our attention.
I'll admit that my work is my passion, and the fulfillment is so satisfying that it's important for me to watchdog my life-work balance. Setting a positive intention gives us a focus for our attention.
A way I find this balance is by putting boundaries, as mentioned above, around my mobile phone and how much time I spend on email. Remembering those I love, and the relationships most important to me keeps me focused on my values. It takes self-awareness and everyday mindfulness to remain centered in our values as business owners and leaders, as human beings and parents.
I admit that sometimes I justify working on my computer a little longer in the evening at home when I could be enjoying my husband’s company, conversing with my son, or enjoying the fresh air and beauty of Montana. But I do keep it in check.
Related reading: "No Work-Life Balance: 9 Healthy Habits for Mental and Emotional Well-Being."
Mindfulness Allows Us to Choose a Healthy Work-Life Balance
My mind jumps to a quote I recently heard on a CD by the Buddhist teacher Pema Chödrön. Like a brisk breeze passing through my mind, her poignant words come back to me:
“Death is certain; when we die is uncertain... What is most important?”
Her question echoes loudly within me now, calling me back to be present in a more connected way.
It's important that we practice mindfulness so that we can make conscious choices to be present to each other and live our values more fully.
Do you have times when you might choose tech immersion over personal interactions?
Is it a conscious choice based on your values?
How do you release stress and center around what is more important to you?
To get support for a better work-life balance or to jumpstart personal growth, contact Heartmanity today!
