by Susan Trost

 

On our vacation, I noticed a family eating breakfast together or at least at the same table. Everyone had their own cell phones and was busy checking emails and texting. Not a word was spoken the entire meal.

Think back to the days before cell phones, blackberries, laptops, and Internet. Do we really need to be so connected? Would the world stop if someone could not access us immediately? Do we really need to work 24 hours a day? How would our stress levels, sleep and health improve?

Challenge: For one week, do the following:

• Check your emails at set times every day, not every time you hear the tone.
• Turn off your cell phone unless you are expecting a really important call. If you must leave it on, then screen the calls.
• Do not work or surf the Internet before bed.