Digitial detox: the gift that keeps giving by eli shostak

Many of us will have time off during the  holidays, but will we really take a break?  Despite being out of the office, 44% of us will  be checking work email during vacation.  Instead of that, be part of the 56% who unplug and take a real breather. Try one of these easy ways to take the first step:

• Use Auto Responders: Set auto responders and turn off notifications. Craft outgoing messages telling people when you’ll return and include ways for them to contact you if the sky falls. Apps like Siesta Text can help by allowing multiple customized messages and specific recipients.
• Shut it Down: Ever considered powering down? For those long on intention but short on discipline, try an app like Digital Detox. From 30 minutes to one month, these apps shut devices down completely. Be warned, this decision can be irreversible (hooray!).
• Do Something: If completely unplugging from work is inconceivable, set aside a daily period to enjoy a device-free class or activity. No one wants to hear a phone buzzing during spin class.
• Go Out of Range: Yes, there are places that quiet phones like a dunk in the toilet. Depending where we live, significant travel may be required. The good news is that adventures bring big payoffs and remote places usually come complete with amazing vistas, fresh air and inspiration.
• Do It with a Friend: Working with others is a proven way to make changes stick. Get friends or coworkers onboard and have honest check-ins to make sure everyone’s sticking to the detox plan.

Before constant connectivity, forgetting about work was as easy as leaving the office. Nowadays, we have to try a little harder to get away. Whether we’re gone for days or just for hours, making the effort to enjoy a real break this holiday will inspire better habits throughout the year (resolution season approaches!) and we’ll be better at our jobs when we return.
This post was originally published on Think NewCo's blog.
Eli Shostak serves as the Operations Director for Think NewCo. Creating custom retreats in beautiful, off-the-grid locations is a core element in Think NewCo's Framework for Focus™. We believe that lasting change comes when we combine new and inspiring experiences with an actionable curriculum delivered by excellent facilitators. To learn more about us, please visit Think NewCo's website.