We’re Not Robots: Gaining Power From Unplugging
The world of software is fast. Dynamic. Relentless. It's easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of deadlines, projects, and evolving technology. In the pursuit of innovation, we often make sacrifices that can skew our work-life balance. However, as much as we enjoy pushing ourselves, one fact remains true: humans don’t have an endless reservoir of energy. We were not designed for ceaseless, uninterrupted operation. Instead, when we define our limits and (ironically) harness the power of unplugging, it can be a tool for productivity, inspiration, and rejuvenation.
Maximize Productivity and Problem-Solving
Wouldn’t it be great if you could be more productive by solving problems faster and more effectively? While problem-solving is a function that both humans and robots can perform, our approaches differ. Unlike robots that run on algorithms and programmed logic, humans rely on complex cognitive processes, intuition, and creative thinking to meet challenges and find solutions.
What this means is that as humans, we need key elements to support our brain’s ability to problem-solve. We need adequate sleep, proper nutrition, and physical activity, among other things like stress management, social interaction, and emotional well-being. When we achieve this balance, we directly impact our problem-solving capabilities (and thus our productivity) in the following ways:
Enhanced Concentration and Focus: When we rest and allow our brains to unplug from work, we can come back better equipped to tackle tasks and solve problems more effectively.
Stimulated Creativity: Thinking outside of the box leads to creative solutions. When we are energized and inspired, we can ideate in fresh, new ways.
Sharpened Decision-Making: Unplugging gives us the space we need to thoughtfully weigh options and process critical information, leading to more acute decision-making.
Spark Inspiration Through Learning
Learning is a way to kindle our inspiration by exercising our brains. Our neural pathways and cognitive abilities can be strengthened by engaging in learning activities and intellectual challenges. Although the capacity to learn is a similarity that humans and robots share, the nature of our learning varies.
Humans learn through trial and error, from our personal experiences and interactions in the world. Robotic learning, on the other hand, primarily occurs with the use of structured data, machine learning, and supervised training within predefined parameters. In many ways, our human experiences differentiate us and make us who we are.
Through learning, we shape our perceptions and ability to respond to new information and challenges. As humans, we are gifted with the opportunity to continually be inspired by the things we learn on a daily basis—it’s why nurturing learning is so important. When we are intentional about taking time to engage in hobbies and non-work-related activities, we give ourselves the chance to learn new things and fuel our inspiration.
Improve Performance With Rejuvenation
While some might view rejuvenation as a luxury, it’s actually an important part of maintaining high-level work performance. When we take care of ourselves by unplugging from work, we can renew our energy, vitality, and enthusiasm. Mental clarity, efficient time management, and effective communication are all factors in improving performance and also products of rejuvenation.
In contrast to our biological nature, robots don’t require rejuvenation–at least not in the same ways as humans. A robot has mechanical needs; rejuvenation for it is more akin to a software update or hardware maintenance. On the other hand, as humans, we have to fulfill our body’s biological needs to function and perform; we check this box by staying rejuvenated. Rejuvenation then enables us to unlock more of our full potential.
Find Work-Life Balance
We all know deep down (even the overachievers), that maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential for our personal well-being and professional success. We achieve balance by being purposeful about taking the time we need to unplug. In return, the power of unplugging ends up boosting our productivity, igniting inspiration, and optimizing our performance. When we are able to strike a balance between our professional responsibilities and personal pursuits, we win. This delicate balance is what empowers us and simultaneously differentiates us from…well, just being robots.