Computer Off Day
When you read the title of this post you may be led to believe that I’m talking about one day in the year when everyone turns off their computer for a day. That would be fun. We’d see who would be the first to crack being unable to check their e-mails. No, I’m not talking about that. This is about me.
I work from home as a web designer but that doesn’t mean I’m working all the time. Nevertheless, the computer is nearly always on. I may be checking e-mails, faffing around on Facebook, updating my blog or researching subjects of interest. It’s been like this for many years. A few years ago, at the end of 2004 I think, I had the idea of declaring one day in the week when the computer was off. Shock, horror. Is that really possible?
I was in Turkey at the time teaching a yoga holiday and one of the things that I do while I’m on holiday, (and I’m sure that others do this too) is to make notes about plans and ideas for when I get home. This was one of the ideas that I noted. Upon my return I think the idea was halved and actioned once or twice. The craving was too strong.
As I mentioned above, there are many tasks that can now be done on the computer that used to be done another way. Research, online shopping, e-mails etc. etc. But do I need to do this every day of the week? And all hours? 
First Experiments
Last Sunday I tried it. I had the idea on Saturday and on Sunday I resisted the urge to turn on the computer before leaving for work. I tell myself that I need to check the weather or e-mails or ebay auctions. Any excuse to take my finger to the power button. But I didn’t do it this week. And I made the resolution to stay away from it for the rest of the day. My attempt was thwarted by work but only lasted for 20 minutes or so.
How was it?
It was really nice. Like a mini holiday. And it was quiet. I felt at a bit of a loss to start with as I usually spend about half an hour on the computer before I leave for work on a Sunday. So what did I do instead? I sat on the sofa and stroked the cat. I read. I did the washing up. And set off for work in a much quieter frame of mind. No sense of tearing myself away at all.
I suppose that there are two main points that I really noticed. First of all the noise that I mentioned above. I have replaced and rewired the fans inside of my G4 Mirrored Drive Door Leaf Blower, but there is still a level of noise that is obtrusive. It’s an acceptable level of noise, but I still heave a sigh of relief when it goes off.
The other main thing is the gravitational pull. Even when you’re work or leisure is done, it still beckons you on. Perhaps I could watch a movie or listen to some music. Tidy up my inbox or whatever. A big pile of unnecessary work ensues. This can be avoided if the computer is off.
Doing other things
If you take a look at the list of goals that I set myself for 2007, then you’ll see that there are many things on there that don’t involve using the computer. Things like yoga, meditation, reading etc. It’s not easy to do any of these things whilst one is sitting in front of the computer or giving it attention. I can clean the flat, do the laundry or simply sit on the sofa and read a book.
So I’m going to try it again next Sunday and then onwards from then on. What about you? Do you think you’d even consider it? Could you wean yourself off the computer for a day? 