What unplugging for a weekend will teach you

In today’s world it is incredibly rare for a day to go by without the interception of TV or the Internet. Most of us rely on the Internet to work and to socialise, and then our evenings are spent in front of the TV to help us ‘wind down’.

So, what do you think would happen if you were to go a whole weekend without the Internet or TV? Take a look at the following things you might come up against:

You are uncomfortable with no background noise

As social creatures, we are typically drawn to hustle and bustle – and that includes noise. This means that when you unplug for the weekend, you may find yourself dealing with a wall of silence. You can of course listen to music, however it may be worth taking up your issue with silence. It will probably make you feel uncomfortable at first, but after a while you may well relish the quiet.

You dislike not being able to waste time

Your smartphone and tablet are ideal tools to help you waste time. Whether you are waiting for a bus, whiling away a rainy afternoon or even bored during an ad break on TV – having a quick look online immediately fills those spare pockets of time. This means during your weekend sans device, you may find yourself feeling restless and bored. Try to work through these feelings and focus on other aspects of your life that you may have been neglecting.

You try to avoid thinking 

Another reason many of us turn to TV or the Internet is because we want to switch off our brain for a while. When you remove these distractions, you are left alone with your thoughts with nothing to distract you. Instead of shying away from your thoughts, try to embrace them. Approach them with curiosity and allow yourself to explore the way your mind works. Now might also be a good time to start meditating as it can help you to quiet those inner voices.

You find it difficult to entertain yourself – especially in the evenings

During the day you should find enough activities and human company to keep you entertained, in the evenings however you may find it more difficult. The evenings are a good time to discover other activities besides watching TV to keep you busy. Try reading a book you ‘never have time to read’, or play a board game with the kids.

Above all else, a weekend without the Internet or TV should teach you that not only is it possible to unplug from time to time, it is in fact incredibly beneficial.