With the last two years being particularly crazy for me personally and professionally, I’ve decided to try to disconnect through the holidays. That is difficult to do in our always-on culture, so it takes some effort.
Let me define what I mean by “disconnecting.” I’m attempting to completely detach from e-mail, Twitter, tech news, and other similar haunts and habits.
Since it acts as the window into my world and is with me at all times, my plan starts with my iPhone. I’ve removed about 35 applications and particularly my boatload of Twitter clients and push notification services like iTweetReply and App Notifications. I’ve also moved my Mail and Safari icons to the last springboard page and turned off my mail accounts.
Using Steven Degutis‘ Docks (from his now closed Thoughtful Tree Software), I’ve also turned on my “offline” dock for my MacBook. While I’m typically a Firefox guy, I’ll being using Safari through the holidays (when on my computer) because I have no customizations or bookmarks to distract me there.
Of course, my mind won’t shut off during this time. In fact, I’m betting it might be more active and fresh. That’s why I have on and offline tools like WriteRoom, TaskPaper, Things, ShareFeed, Evernote, a paper notebook, and other means to capture my ideas and thoughts.
Much of what you’ve read above is part of how I typically stay focused. For example, I have about 4-5 different docks saved for different scenarios including writing, product management, and “morning.” I’ve taken it a step further this holiday in an effort and hope to relax, reflect, and recharge for the coming year.
Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
