Get offline, get unplugged, at least for a while

I first got online and got my first e-mail address in early 1995.  In late '95 I launched my Web design business.  Having my own company meant being online and available to my customers all the time.  I was always plugged in.  Even on vacation I brought my now vintage NEC laptop.  As time went by I joined various startups.  Even then when on vacation it was expected that I spend at least some of my time checking “urgent” e-mails and calling in for important meetings.  And I did.

But this past week I took a Caribbean cruise and did something I hadn't done in 15 years.  I totally went off the grid.  No e-mail.  No cell phone.  For exactly 7 days and 10 hours.  It was strange at first. But overall it was great, it was freeing.  On the professional front I had help from co-workers who covered any urgent matters that came up.  On the personal front I often found myself reaching for the iPhone that wasn't in my pocket to get that instant Internet information I thought I needed.  My technology tether wasn't there and after a while I got used to it.  Early this week I was talking with a business contact and mentioned my unwired vacation.  She said she sometimes has “detox” weekends where she doesn't check her “crackberry” at all. She said it was great and I agree. Try it..unplug..detox..enjoy the spring.