Today, as I walked out of the office — with my phone in my purse — I heard birds chirping. It was such a pleasant sound after all this cold and cloudiness. And the thought crossed my mind, have those birds been chirping for days and I’m just now noticing? Am I just now noticing how the light breeze feels against my face?
I walk around with my phone in my hand — multitasking! Gotta check emails! Gotta look at Instagram! Gotta stay up-to-date on Twitter! — and I’m not paying attention to anything else, not noticing what is around me. And I started thinking about how all my five senses are dulled when my phone is in my hand – which is a lot.
I don’t fully taste my food if I’m scrolling through my phone while sitting down for lunch.
I don’t see anything around me if I’m focused on the bright screen.
I don’t really feel how soft and warm Maizey is if I’m texting with my right hand while petting her with my left.
I don’t smell the fresh air when I step out of the house…
I don’t hear birds chirping…
Honestly, it’s just sad. But I’m working on putting it away and being present, being mindful in each moment. Noticing what is happening around me, noticing and appreciating the little things.
I’m so glad for the many ways my theme for the year is manifesting, helping me to think about and change so many behaviors, including this one.
8 Comments
Michelle @ A Healthy Mrs
atGreat point, Teri!
Sometimes I need to remind myself to put the phone/tablet away too — technology is a double edged sword!
Sara @ LovingOnTheRun
atThis is such a good reminder! Some days we need to disconnect and be present in our own lives – or we will miss out on so many things!
Jordan Lynn // Life Between Lattes
atI am so guilty of this. I need to remind myself to put technology away more often too!
Mom
atYou live in such a beautiful place. I’m glad you are taking time to remember to notice. I’m always amazed at the birds there. Enjoy!
Livi
atSo true! My phone can become an extension of my hand sometimes and I don’t spend time actually concentrating on the things!
Dana
atSo true. The other day I was walking my dog and think I finally just heard some birds chirping. It felt like Spring!
Happy Friday!
Purelytwins
atso true! Gary is always yelling at me to put the phone down 😉 it can be hard, but I am trying to work on it!
Sam
atOne of my goals this year is to disconnect more because I, too, am overly attached to my iPhone. You’re so right about how disconnected you become from life around you when you are too connected to your device. It’s been a challenge but I feel so much lighter when I just forget about the noise coming from my pocket.