If I am not careful, when I get home from school, I will jump right back on my computer and pick up where I left off. I have done this while trying to snack or check in with my husband. I have even convinced myself that it is relaxing to scroll through facebook while eating my peanut butter and apple.
No, Erica, it is not.
Today, I came home, reheated some pizza my husband made last night, and sat down at the table. Without my phone. Without my computer. He and I then went for a brisk walk around the block. One literal block that took not more than 10 minutes. When it came time to sit back down in front of my computer, I was ready. My brain had been given a break. A moment to discharge.
The strangest phenomenon has occurred as I have slowed down and made space for more pauses. My day feels longer. I am getting the same amount of work done in less time. It is incredibly hard to trust that might be the case if you are someone who is time-strapped. Easing up on the multitasking and creating more pauses may actually result in more time rather than less. I’m a believer.
Try it for yourself. Come home from school and pause. Don’t jump right back into work. Take a full break, in this world, with no technology. Have a cup of tea, a snuggle with your dog, or even a moment to just shut your eyes and rest.