By Leo Babauta
Each day, I try to get outside for a walk or run (or other sport like cycling or basketball), and my debate with myself is often whether to bring my phone and earbuds to listen to music, a podcast, an audiobook … or to go tech-free.
Tech-free is my favorite option — and I’d like to share why.
I do love listening to audiobooks and podcasts. I’ve had many hours of running or walking listening and learning, and I think it’s a valuable way to spend my time. So much goodness from this.
I also love music, whether it’s grooving to old tunes or exploring new stuff, dancing to what my kids listen to … it lifts my heart.
But going without technology is my favorite of all, and I only recently rediscovered this classic joy.
Without technology, I feel more present, more open to experiences in the world. I feel more connected to nature. I don’t miss out on little kids playing in the park in ways that make me smile. Life is more wondrous, in full color.
And what’s more, I do my best thinking while on technology-free walks and runs. My best ideas come to me. I solve my toughest problems. I have deeper reflections on my own experiences. This is more valuable than 100 audiobooks.
Finally, and maybe even most importantly, I get out of the bubble of my comfort. Most of us are connected to technology all day long, from the moment we wake up. Maybe we have some disconnected time in little pockets, like showering or cooking (although even there, some people listen to music), but even while eating, working out, commuting, we tend to be connected to our devices. I don’t think technology is bad — it empowers so much good — but I do think we tend to use it as a comfort bubble to insulate us from the world. Getting out of that bubble daily is one of the most important things we can do, so we don’t shrink our capacity to be with life as it is. And believe me, I’ve seen it shrinking in many people.
What would it be like to have a daily time to be fully connected to the world, and out of your comfort zone?