I had the pleasure of spending a few days up at a friend’s cottage this week. It’s amazing how different one can feel after driving a few hours north of the city. Cue  ‘A Whole New World’ ~ one of my fave songs from Aladdin ~ as the soundtrack.

That being said, with all that’s going on right now, I was feeling a tad guilty about escaping in the middle of the week. And so I was actually intending to still be connected and get some work done, albeit from a remote and peaceful destination.

And then upon arrival, I learned there was no wifi.

My immediate reaction: ‘What? No wifi?!? How will I ever survive?!?’

I’ll admit I had an initial bout of panic, however the panic soon turned into bliss. I was somewhat forced to disconnect, as even my cell phone service was pretty dodgy. And oh man did it turn out to be a blessing in disguise.

Did you know that 84% of mobile phone users admit they wouldn’t be able to go a day without using their device? And on average, folks check their phone every 6.5 minutes. Ca-RAZY!

It’s true, we’re pretty connected to technology. And there’s a lot of pressure to be ‘plugged in’ … some feel it around the clock. But is this really necessary? Or healthy?

In spite of this pressure, there’s good reason to actually unplug, disconnect, and take part in digital detoxes on a regular basis.

Here are three compelling reasons to do so.

1. Helps alleviate feelings of comparison, jealousy, and FOMO.

It’s all too easy to get caught up in the Facebook vortex. And yet, when you’re comparing your regular life to everyone else’s highlight reel, it only makes sense you’re going to expose yourself to an unrealistic view of the world. Someone else’s world may appear to look far more exciting than your own. As a result, you may be left with feelings of ‘less than.’ And, the more you’re connected, the more you’ll see all of the goings on at any given time. It’s impossible to keep up with everything ~ and so it’s likely feelings of “Fear of Missing Out” (FOMO) may also ensue.

The irony here folks, is that we all do it. And chances are people are looking at your life wishing they were a player in it!

2.  Allows space and time for you, for creative thinking, versus consumption overload.

There’s this notion of creation before consumption. If you’re looking at your phone first thing in the morning, starting your day by consuming everything that’s out there, you may become overwhelmed before you’ve even had a chance to eat your Wheaties. And then when it comes to doing your own work, your mood has been influenced, and you may not be coming from an open, clear space. There is SO much out there, sometimes the noise makes it difficult to listen to and hear our own voice.

3. Allows you to actually experience life in the moment.

I’ll admit it, I’m a big fan of the selfie. I do like to capture the moments. And yet, sometimes I catch myself so caught up in capturing the moment, I am actually missing out on the moment. I actually took very few pictures over the last few days… and didn’t post one. And it was actually kinda freeing.

I shot a quick living big challenge on this idea ~ how powerful it is to disconnect, and offer three ideas to put into action. Watch it here! 

It’s no wonder this video entitled ‘I forgot my phone’ went viral.

The magical power of unplugging. Disconnect from your device, reconnect with yourself. Click to tweet it out!

Have a FAB week!