embracing a digital sabbath: my journey with "The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry"

The digital age has transformed our lives in countless ways, making connection and information access instantaneous. However, this constant connectivity comes at a cost—our peace and presence.

Recently, I embarked on a transformative journey inspired by John Mark Comer's book, "The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry." After reading just a fraction of this enlightening text, I felt compelled to change my digital life significantly.

The Concept of a Digital Sabbath

Comer's book delves into the idea of a Sabbath, a day of rest, but with a modern twist: a digital Sabbath. This isn't just about turning off your devices for a few minutes; it's about creating a sacred time where digital distractions are entirely set aside.

Inspired by this, my wife and I dedicate a 90-minute block every Saturday and Sunday to a digital detox (with the goal to increase this time as the weeks go on). There are no smartphones, tablets, emails, social media, or eReaders. Just us, engaging with the real world, talking, maybe reading a physical book, or simply enjoying the silence.

The Radical Decision to Unplug

The second, and perhaps more radical change, was deleting my social media accounts—specifically, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook.

Yes, you read that right, deleting, not just deactivating.

In an age where social media dominance is almost synonymous with staying relevant, this might sound like digital suicide. But here's the thing: I realized these platforms were more of a drain than a gain for me. I hardly used them, but the mere existence of these accounts felt like an invisible tether pulling me back into the noise of digital chatter.

The Impact

The immediate effect? A sense of liberation. The weight of constant notifications, the pressure to keep up with everyone's curated lives, it all lifted. I felt lighter, more present, and paradoxically, more connected. By disconnecting from these platforms, I wasn't missing out; I was gaining time, focus, and most importantly, peace.

Keeping What Works

Now, I'm not entirely off the grid. I've retained my LinkedIn and Snapchat accounts. LinkedIn because it's essential for professional networking and development, and Snapchat because it's a fun, light way to keep in touch with close friends and family. These platforms serve a purpose that aligns with my values and needs without overwhelming me.

Conclusion: Rethinking Our Relationship with Technology

"The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry" isn't just about adding more hours to your day; it's about living more fully in the moments you have.

I've begun reclaiming my time and attention by implementing a digital Sabbath and paring down my social media presence. It's a reminder that in our quest for digital connectivity, we must not forget the value of real-life connections, silence, and presence.

If you're feeling the weight of digital overwhelm, maybe it's time to consider your own form of digital Sabbath. Trust me, the peace it brings is worth the initial discomfort of disconnection.

Mark

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