Lately, I’ve been reflecting on the expectations I place on myself in both my personal and professional life. Despite having a busy job, I rarely feel stressed about my day-to-day work, which is God’s grace because some office days are insane.
However, my anxiety comes from other areas, like co-managing a publishing house in Romania while living in a different country or producing uplifting Christian content that resonates with people from all walks of life. In their free time, some people golf; I write.
A few weeks ago, I wrote a list of things that bring me joy, from having an organized home to listening to my rock playlist to travelling. I was so honest that I even wrote: watching puppies on social media.
Today, I will dwell for a few moments on travelling and how this is one of the things that helps me disconnect the most. By the way, I just realized that all the main characters from my novels go somewhere new or visit a place where their life ultimately change. Hm… Coincidence?
Going into a new place is not something I take for granted. I can meet people of different cultures and see how they live, what they like, and what they eat. I hear stories or see something that might spark an idea for something. As a writer, I thrive on that; as a Christian, I grow because of that.
When you travel, you get to disconnect and have time for yourself on top of everything else I mentioned.
“To travel is to take a journey into yourself.”
A month ago, I went to Italy for a few days. It was an excellent opportunity for me to unwind both mentally and physically. As a result, I returned feeling rested, full of new ideas, and ready to start a new season. The people were lovely, the food was incredible, and our hotel had the best services. We recommend it.
Returning to disconnect to reconnect, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of daily life in our fast-paced, hyper-connected world.
With work responsibilities, social obligations, and digital devices constantly grabbing our attention, it often feels like we’re always moving, never genuinely pausing and reflecting.
When I think about disconnecting, I intentionally set aside time to unplug from my regular routines, devices, and distractions. It’s about creating space for myself to breathe, think, and be present in the moment.
How do you disconnect effectively?
- Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries for when and how you’ll disconnect. Communicate your intentions with those around you to manage expectations.
- Unplug from Technology: Power down your devices or put them on silent mode. Consider designating specific “device-free” times or zones in your daily life. During dinner time, our phones are ”locked” in the bedroom. It’s our opportunity to prepare a meal together and discuss how our day went.
- Engage in Mindfulness: Practice mindfulness techniques such as prayer, reading your Bible or deep breathing to stay present in the moment.
- Prioritize Rest: Getting sufficient sleep and taking time to relax is essential.
In our wild world, where everything has a deadline and when days are getting fuller and fuller, disconnecting is not a luxury but a necessity for our mental and emotional well-being.
So, take a break, unplug, and experience the transformative power of disconnecting to reconnecting.
Your future self will thank you for it.
