We’ve been here a week and I haven’t once looked at my Facebook page, Twitter feed or posted a single picture on my Instagram feed. I have also not written anything more than short shopping lists (by hand with actual pen on actual paper) for our nearly daily visits to various markets in this area of South of France.
This may sound like nothing to you, but to me it is revolutionary. Normally when at home in London (or indeed anywhere), the first thing I do, when I wake, is to grab my phone and check my book sales, do a few posts on Twitter and Facebook, check my website stats and look through my emails. This is before I even get out of bed. The rest of the day is the same, I am never too far away from my social media feed, unless I am writing, and forcing myself to be out of the loop for few hours.
Having an Internet Detox during our two week break to Provence this year was the Englishman’s idea. It was something which at first I considered with pure horror; what if my book sales tanked when I wasn’t constantly reminding the world of my existence? What if everybody has forgotten about me (and my work) by the time I re-enter the world of 140 characters or less? What if my email list has disappeared and every reader with it?
‘But who works from noon till night like you do?’ asked the Englishman. ‘You have to have a break some time.’
My excuse was that since I’m building my business – the business of making a living as an author entrepreneur – I have to give it my all. If anyone, he should know, that when you have your own business, you work all the hours.
But a real break from writing, and particularly from social media was exactly what I needed. (As much as it pains me to say it, the Englishman was right). After just one week (and I have another seven days to go), I feel refreshed and my brain feels sharper. I won’t pretend it hasn’t been hard – during the first few days I kept going to my phone and on several occasions was just seconds away from pressing the Twitter icon, or posting a picture on Instagram. But I forced myself to focus on the physical world around me, instead of worrying about the virtual one.
And it seems to have paid off, because I feel so incredibly rested; more relaxed than I have felt in years.
Although, I’m yet to find out if my little online world has collapsed, while I’ve been wandering around pretty French villages, taking long lunches or spending lazy afternoons in the sun.
I sincerely hope you’ll still be there when I get back.
A bientôt!
PS. I know I’m cheating a little by writing this post, but last night I began to feel as if I was losing my mind, so I came to an agreement with myself and the Englishman. We both decided one blog post won’t break the detox …
I think we all ought to be able to get that on prescription, Helena – it would save the NHS a fortune! Enjoy the rest of your holiday, and I’m sure you will return to your desk rested and revitalised, ready for a high-achieving autumn. Looking forward to my turn later this summer!
Debbie,
I am so glad I did it, but although I feel very refreshed and rested, it’s taking me longer to get back up to speed! Perhaps I was just running in overdrive before I went away? The London heatwave isn’t helping … Hope you have a lovely and relaxing time on your social media detox later.
Helenax
Well said Helena. I always found The Engiishman was right too 🙂
I’m going to try this during our hols this year, although, not being a prolific social media user, I may find it easier. But then there is the aspect of having one’s own business to keep tabs on….
Decisions decisions – where will it all end.
Wishing you both a great holiday!
Thank you Barty! The Englishman has his moments … (very few though). Hx
Well done. I believe as a mother, writer and woman, that essential breaks are vital. It gives the mind, body and soul room to breathe in new life by itself, for itself.
No-one will forget you for 2 weeks!
Rosemary,
You’re right, we all need a break!
Helenax