I like to tell people that my main work functions are: observe, report, and nag. Most of these functions occur online. By the time the weekend rolls around, I have no interest in what my electronic devices might offer me. Maybe I’ll read an ebook or visit a website I’ve been meaning to explore. Just don’t expect me to be all over Facebook or checking emails. On the weekends, I take a rest.
I believe that we need to be dropouts. Most of us do not have livestock to water, feed, or milk on a daily basis. Our information technology department asked me if I wanted to receive work emails on my personal Blackberry. Heck no! If the university thought my email was so important, I would be using one of their devices like my vice president does.
My weekends off began with the simple idea of carving out some Sabbath time when I could tune into myself. If I felt tethered to the computer Monday through Friday. Having no need to do so on Saturday, it would be a walk in the park, so to speak. In fact, it’s more like laying out in the backyard. Detaching from the electronic tether is such a calm and refreshing experience that it often stretches the entire weekend, and I usually have to force myself to check personal emails Sunday evening if I can remember to do even that.
Colleagues, join me in the revolution! Turn off, drop out, and tune in. Most people at work won’t notice, and you’ll be the better for indulging in the luxury of having time for yourself.
Sarah-Ann Harnick
is the Assistant Director–Campus Life at New Jersey City University.
Sarah became active in ACUI with her first job in student activities of Rider then-College. After earning her MFA from the University of Texas, she relocated to New Jersey and just never left the state. Intrigued by how things work, she accepted an operations position at New Jersey City now-University where she has learned more about elevators, revolving doors, and roof leaks than most people should ever know. The real reason she has stayed in this field is the pure joy of watching students learn and grow.