Relationships Unplugged

Have you ever gone unplugged for a few hours or even a day or more? I mean really unplugged. No phones, no computers, no television. I do at least once a week for 24 hours and I can't tell you how significant it is in my relationships. If you've never unplugged, give it a whirl and let me know what you think.

Having a day off from emails, texting, social media, and media in general is extremely helpful in building and maintaining your relationships, be it with your spouse, children, relatives or friends. Think about how many times you've checked your phone when talking to your significant other or uploaded the latest pictures of your kids while they're vying for your attention. Or maybe the chatter of the television always seems to be the background music of your home. Turning off these distractions forces you to interact with those around you. And that's a good thing. In such a fast paced world, it's nice to have a regular breather. It's even better to have one when you can cultivate your relationships.

Consider that going unplugged means giving your undivided attention to your spouse when he's speaking. It means not being too busy to play with your children uninterrupted. It means enjoying true quiet time through meditation or self-reflection or reading a good book without having to put it down because the phone rings. These precious, but few moments, highlights what ought to be the most important areas in your life. And it's in these moments that your relationships grow, while you grow and learn as an individual.

Sure, it's hard. You're busy. You don't want to miss out on anything. But after you give it a try, you might come to realize that you didn't miss anything after all. You also might find yourself with a newfound energy and spirit. Hopefully, you and your loved ones will feel more connected and happier (if you all agree to being unplugged at the same time). If you're newly married, now is an opportune time to agree together to go unplugged routinely. Give yourself a day and time and stick to it. It will give you something to look forward to and more resolve to keep it going.