Unplug thyself — learning to disconnect as a developer in the digital age

It is ironic that I would post an invitation to other developers to unplug while I type on my laptop at 6:30 AM. If any scenario was simple enough to demonstrate the problem, then that would be it. It is an unavoidable forgone conclusion that the digital age overshadows everything we do. Escaping permanently from a near electronic dystopia run primarily through the Internet seems like an impossibility. Seriously, you might be asking, why even bother trying?

Let me begin by stating that I am not an early adopter. I suppose you might say I am a moderate. It is my duty to stay informed while working as a software engineer, and to understand emerging technologies. However, over the last decade I have managed to stem the tidal wave of digital growth, pushing aside “gotta have ‘em” gadgets, the latest and greatest computers, and most recently an avoidance of hip Web APIs. I have even (gasp) decided to sell my Wii so that I can focus on more substantially rewarding activities. Once you upright yourself in your chair, please continue.

To some degree you could argue I have matured. I now understand that the world of tomorrow is already here today, and it will be here again tomorrow, and probably the day after, too. I have learned to relax, swallowing those anxious thoughts that tempt me to absorb the minute details surrounding digital age up-and-comers, startups, and trend setters. I do not own an iPhone, you cannot tweet me, and my first life is enjoyable enough that I do not need a second one. In essence, I have learned the benefits of unplugging.

I could try to use reverse psychology to convince you of these benefits — if you feel you are unable to disconnect, then I understand — it is not for everyone. I could also use philosophical tactics — I mean, when the Singularity upends civilization, is it not better to be a conscious being, then to be trapped in the Matrix? Only the unplugged will know for sure. If you know what the Singularity is, then it may already be too late for you. Regrettably, I am stuck simply explaining how I unplug, and you will be forced to make the decision for yourself.

Exercise

I think I just lost most of my audience with that subheading. Hold on, let me check my stats. Yes, yes, most have left by now. They must be trying to find my Wii auction on eBay. For those of you still reading, let me put some parameters around this exercise. It does not need to be vigorous, or even sustainable. In fact, if you do not like the word exercise, think of it as an increase in the number of times you stand up from your chair.

Try a light walk instead of checking email or Adsense dollars. If you can set some health goals, then all the better, but that is not the primary purpose of these activities. Some early studies have shown that physical exercise increases cerebral blood flow and levels of a brain-cell growth hormone. You can actually argue that the foosball table in your office that generates so much competition (and perspiration), is benefiting the company by increasing your ability to think straight.

Ever feel energized and rejuvenated after a light walk? Are you trying to solve a difficult problem, or design that next Web masterpiece? Step away from your workstation, or from the office altogether. Go to the mall at lunch, eat, and then stroll around. Look at all those happy people getting the juices flowing. No, not the ones by the Apple store — they are not there to unplug. They are looking for more outlets. You must scoff at them from afar.

Nap

I am an Olympic napper. I understand that on occasion, even exercise will not do the trick. I must shut down completely. I do not retire to my pod, but I have been known in the past to catch a few winks in the car. A portable alarm is a must in these circumstances. So that you may fully escape the digital technology ruling your life, I suggest a kitchen timer.

According to MetroNaps, the benefits of napping are rather endless:

Naps have been shown to benefit almost every aspect of human wellness. The benefits to the body include better heart functioning, hormonal maintenance, and cell repair. They help you live longer, stay more active, and look younger. No organ is as affected by naps (or the lack thereof) as the brain. The benefits result in greater alertness, improved memory retention and creative insight. Napping can make you a faster typist, better dancer or anything else requiring complex and coordinated motor skills. Also, a nap’s effects on mental health include improved mood, lowered stress, and greater psychological balance.

When sleeping, you are attempting to resuscitate the brainwaves. You will not do this through constant stimulation. Overdosing on Internet scandals, or a marathon session of reading blogs (except for this one of course) will only contribute to diminished productivity. Your lethargic contributions to post-lunch meetings will be a thing of the past after some sleep. Do not overdo it — less than twenty minutes is suggested. You do not want to be affected by Sleep Inertia (grogginess), or an unsightly case of bed head.

Lithium

No, not through drugs, but through nature. Yes, Lithium is a naturally occurring substance in both our bodies and in nature. What else generates Lithium? The sun. In other words, get outside! It has been a debate in scientific circles (though not as hot as global warming mind you), but some research argues that the absorption of Lithium perks up the pathways to higher learning.

So, unless you live in an arctic climate making it impossible to enjoy the great outdoors, skip the mall, and go for a hike. Exposure to natural surroundings is like Cryptonite to artificial climates. Vegging out in front of the TV, or hunkering down for a WoW marathon will not provide the same relaxation or refreshment that Lithium will. Pump yourself full of this substance, figuratively speaking of course, and get a jump start on your afternoon.

Conversation

What better way to unplug thyself, then by engaging in some one-on-one conversation with colleagues. The only rule — no shop talk. If you truly want to be released from the shackles of this digital age, then discussions must be focused around friends, family, hobbies, sports, politics, well, you get the point. If you are not known to be a people-person, you may receive glassy-eyed looks from coworkers. A few may nod their head intently while you talk, and be contemplating what finally made you snap. Stick with the conversation, and continue to engage your fellow humans. If you find that this increases your level of anxiety, try reading a book instead. The kind of book made from paper, and without an e in front.

• Posted by Brian
• September 12th, 2007