Unplug Often, Embrace Solitude
Lesson 6: Disconnecting to Reconnect Is Essential for Renewal
In this “always-on” world, moments of stillness can feel like luxuries. But I’ve learned that intentionally stepping away from the noise—whether it’s social media, work, or even the constant buzz of technology—is not just rewarding; it’s necessary for our well-being.
In my mid-twenties, I started a simple ritual: finding a quiet, green spot to sit and just be. Listening to birds chirping, feeling the breeze, and letting my mind wander felt incredibly grounding. I learned this from a colleague. These moments of solitude became a sanctuary, offering clarity and calmness amidst life’s demands. For me, such moments are also a great opportunity to connect with God and practically embrace the nature that He created.
However, the pull of technology often made this difficult. Mobile phones, while incredibly useful, can trap us in cycles of overstimulation and distraction. Social media, in particular, has a way of keeping us endlessly scrolling. On many occasions, I found myself overwhelmed by the constant connectivity and realized something had to change.
I began taking intentional breaks—short retreats from social media and other digital distractions. These breaks weren’t grand or dramatic; sometimes, they lasted a few days or even just hours. Before using systems like digital detoxes, I often struggled with feeling like I wasn’t getting enough rest, mentally or emotionally. It was only when I stepped away intentionally that I noticed how much more focused and grounded I felt.
Taking a break from the digital world allows you to reconnect with what truly matters—your thoughts, relationships, and the natural world around you. It creates space for reflection, creativity, and rest, which are often sacrificed in the pursuit of productivity or constant engagement.
Our brains are not designed for continuous stimulation. Social media algorithms, notifications, and endless streams of information hijack our attention and create mental fatigue. When you take a break, you give your brain the chance to rest and reset, allowing you to process your thoughts more clearly.
In lesson 5, I wrote about building systems, the same principle applies to taking breaks: unless you create a system and track the benefits, it’s easy to overlook their value. Building the discipline to disconnect is challenging but deeply rewarding. Here are some steps that have worked for me:
- Schedule Digital Detoxes: Set specific times to unplug from social media or turn off your phone entirely. Start small—maybe an hour a day—and gradually increase. I recently started using an app called Opal that helps block social media and other apps, and the experience has been fulfilling so far.
- Create Technology-Free Zones: Designate areas in your home, like the bedroom or dining table, where gadgets are off-limits. A good hack, especially to prevent night scrolling, is to leave your phone in another room when you go to bed.
- Replace Scrolling with Intentional Activities: Use the time to read a book, meditate, journal, or take a walk in nature. Personally, I find walks incredibly refreshing, more so than anything else.
- Track the Benefits: Notice how you feel after a break—mentally, emotionally, and even physically. This will motivate you to keep going. Most of the time I’ve felt overwhelmed have been after prolonged gadget use, whether for unhealthy habits like aimlessly scrolling through social media or even well-intentioned ones like long hours of working on a computer.
In the last year, I haven’t taken as many breaks as I would like, but reflecting on their benefits reminds me why they’re so valuable. Disconnecting is not just about escaping; it’s about creating space to reconnect—with yourself, your values, and the world around you.
I still struggle to maintain these beneficial habits, including walking, which remains one of my favourite ways to refresh. Yet, I’m committed to reviving these practices because of the clarity and peace they bring.
So,
When will you take your next break to reconnect?
In case you missed lesson 5, you can read it here
Ivan Kabandize