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Recently, a colleague asked me what I have been doing to take care of myself. I talked about a new gym membership, dog-sitting for a week, taking time to care for my loved ones, rearranging my office to make it more beautiful and functional, the occasional midday nap, lunches out with my husband, time out with a friend, an art project here and there, getting rid of the dead flowers in my front yard, and the many small breaks I squeeze in and treasure between my client meetings and project work.

A couple of days later, a friend asked me a similar question. I answered with a similar list and added driving with my windows down and music blasting, going for my yearly physical, and drinking my coffee at the coffee shop instead of taking it to go and drinking it at my desk. Look how well I am prioritizing self-care! Then another colleague asked me…

Being asked the question a third time in less than a week got my attention. Yes, I have been making space for lots of small ways to self-care. However, there’s a pattern—it’s all doing. Even when I am sitting “doing nothing,” I am checking and responding to emails in between cleaning up after dinner and watching a documentary. How well am I really recharging?

The Cell Phone Metaphor for Self-Care

Using the metaphor of a cell phone, I realized that while all that is great self-care, I’ve been ‘using my device while it is plugged in.’ And have been, for several years now. So I started reflecting: when’s the last time I truly turned it all off? Not just a restart, but off. Not on the charger, but set aside, letting the memory clear and the battery completely cool down. Truthfully, it’s been a while. Too long. (For me, and my phone! You should know, I just had to replace my phone three weeks ago as I had neglected this very thing and the battery expanded from overheating; I almost lost everything stored on my phone!)

Planning to Unplug

So, I am preparing to unplug next week. I won’t be 100% unplugged all week (that’s a self-care choice as well); however, one of my new goals is to see how much time I can spend doing next to nothing. Just sitting, in silence, maybe on the back porch. No book, no phone or tablet, no radio or TV. Unplugged, hoping to move beyond my brain’s busyness, past the anxious thoughts of all the things I could be doing, and just breathing. Being fully present to myself, my body, my thoughts, my feelings, and whatever happens around me.

What Will It Take for You to Unplug?

Reflecting on my experiences, I encourage you to consider your self-care routines. Are you genuinely recharging, or are you merely ‘using your device while it’s plugged in’? Here are a few steps to help you genuinely unplug:

1. Schedule Time for Stillness Dedicate specific times in your week where you commit to doing nothing. Find a peaceful spot and allow yourself to be fully present.

2. Disconnect from Devices Put away your phone, tablet, and any other devices. Resist the urge to check emails or social media during this time.

3. Practice Mindfulness Engage in mindfulness practices such as meditation or deep breathing. Focus on the present moment without any distractions.

4. Reflect on Your Needs Consider what activities genuinely recharge you. It’s not just about staying busy but finding what truly brings you peace and relaxation.

5. Create a Balanced Routine Balance your active self-care practices with moments of complete rest. Ensure that you are not always on the go, but also taking time to slow down and unwind.

Conclusion: The Power of Unplugging

True self-care goes beyond constant activity. It’s about finding balance and allowing yourself time to rest and recharge fully. By genuinely unplugging, you can move past the busyness of your mind and be fully present to yourself and your surroundings. Take the time to unplug and see the profound impact it can have on your well-being and overall quality of life. What will it take for you to unplug?

Thanks for stopping by. We hope you found at least one little nugget you are taking away with you. What will you do to bring it into full living color?

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