“You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.” – Joe Lewis
How much time do you spend blogging?
Don’t worry, I’m not about to do a survey on you and tick you off as “certified insane.” I merely ask this because I’m genuinely concerned about your health.
I’m not concerned in a physical or mental way, but rather in a lifestyle way. You see, there are some people in the world who spend the equivalent of a 70-80 hour work week on their computers. Their blogs have become their reasons for existing, and their loved ones question whether they truly know them anymore. It’s become a sad situation.
I don’t like to see that happen, as I’m sure you don’t too. So for these people, and for anyone who is worried about turning into someone who relies on their computer for life-support, this post is for you.
The Two Death-Beds
Have you ever heard of the death-bed statement?
It’s a statement that you say to yourself when you’re lying on your deathbed, drawing your last breath. It could bea general summary of your life and your opinion of it. It could be regret over not spending enough time travelling and adventuring, or satisfaction in knowing you had lived your dreams.
As it’s not likely that we’re going to be at this point any time soon, it’s best that we imagine for now. So here are two possible scenarios that will emphasise the theme of this post, and hopefully help you gain a little more awareness:
‘He lies on his deathbed with his loved ones surrounding him, their hearts full of grief. Pale and tired, he looks up to the sky, tears starting to fill his eyes. Quietly, but firmly, he utters these words, “I wish I had spent more time working on my SEO techniques.” Then he dies.’
‘He lies on his deathbed with his loved ones surrounding him, their hearts full of grief. Pale and tired, he looks up to the sky, tears starting to fill his eyes. Quietly, but firmly, he utters these words, “I wish I had spent more time with my loved ones.” Then he dies.’
Hopefully you can see the difference here. As laughable as it may seem, this is the direction that a lot of bloggers are heading towards. Their family and friends have taken a backseat to monetizing and traffic. Their priorities have been lost in translation.
What Your Blog Won’t Do
Now I’d be the first to say that blogging has a lot of uses. It helps to develop your profile internationally. You can express your own opinions. And as Christian has pointed out, you can generate a whole load of great connections.
But despite all its good worth, it is not your life. There are some things blogging can’t do.
Save your offline relationships
If it has got so bad that your online relationships are of more importance to you than your offline relationships, then stop what you’re doing and think about this. Who loves you unconditionally? Who’s there to have amazing, face-to-face connections with where you can share your souls? It’s your loved ones, your nearest and dearest. Those who care for you and respect you.
Blogging will not develop and strengthen your relationships in the ‘real world’ – it will only develop your online relationships. And the online relationships should be taking a back seat to those that truly matter.
Solve all your problems
Sometimes we think that turning to the internet and pouring out our stresses and troubles in the latest blog post will help us solve these problems. That blogging will act as a form of therapy. Unfortunately, it won’t.
We all have problems in our lives, and we will continue to have problems for as long as we live. Problems are an essential part of life. Just because you’ve turned to the computer screen in an attempt to hide away from your depressing life, does not mean that your problems have magically disappeared.
Look at the bloggers in the world who have hugely popular blogs – Darren Rowse, Leo Babauta, Brian Clark. Do you think that just because they have “made it” in the blogging world, their lives are trouble-free? Hardly. They all have families to look after, bills to pay and boring chores to do. They have the same stuff that you and I have.
Why?
Because they’re human beings.
Get you fit
I think this one speaks for itself, but blogging won’t improve your physical health. Sure, your mental health may improve, and you may become a wiser and more spiritual person if you read the right blogs. But physical improvement? I’m afraid blogging is the worst thing for that.
It’s possible to get conditions such as deep-vein thrombosis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and a standard ‘bad back’ from excessive use of the computer. Not to mention cramp, arthritis, wrist pain and visual stress. Now you can learn all about these conditions from the internet, and you may even find some cool blog posts and articles that tell you how to reduce the chances of getting these symptoms, such as Christian’s 5 Steps To Become A Healthier Blogger.
Now this all seems nice, but do you want to know the best way to reduce the chances?
Get off the computer.
The Offline Day Challenge
There was a period in my life when, due to various ‘offline commitments’, I decided to take a break from being online for one whole day. On that day, I attended a course, took part in an amateur dramatics group, and worked my day job. All of this didn’t involve blogging.
The results? I felt refreshed at the end of each day, despite it being a full load of productivity. This is because I hadn’t been staring at a computer for so many hours, or worrying about anything to do with my blog. I took a break, and I’m glad I did.
As much as I love blogging, I feel it’s good to take a step back. So here’s my challenge to you – select one day in the week and make that your ‘offline day’.
In this offline day, I don’t want you to do anything online. Don’t check your e-mails, don’t work on your blog, don’t surf the web, don’t do anything that involves you turning on the computer. Anything else is fine, as long as it’s offline.
You could work your day job, play with your kids, enjoy your hobby, whatever it is that provides you with activity and happiness. The idea is that from this break, you will be refreshed and re-energised, ready to return to blogging with renewed vigour.
So are you up for the challenge? Let us know if you decide to have an offline day, and how it went. We’d love to hear your thoughts!
Stuart is a personal development blogger who wants to help you out. He thinks you’re awesome. You can often find him at Unlock The Door, where he writes constantly to make it a better day for everyone. You should also check out his tweets at @theunlockeddoor.
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"You’re such a smart boy!" were his first accolades heard. So, it’s no wonder that this phrase became the title of his business, Smart Boy Designs.
Read more about Christian 
{ 92 comments… read them below or add one }
Stuart sometime people are not strong minded enohg to setup up a schedule and stick to it. They over work themselves and hurt the people around them.
“Black Seo Guy “Signing Off”
TrafficColeman recently posted..Syed Balkhi Specks His Mind on Seo and Web Design
Hey Coleman, thanks for stopping by and commenting!
Yes, some people do overwork themselves, and harm others. But ultimately, it’s up to them to take responsibility for their actions. No-one else can
Twitter: smartboydesigns
August 4, 2011 at 9:11 pm
You’re quick on the draw Coleman…always appreciate you taking the time to comment right when something is posted!
Twitter: jonathangaurano
August 5, 2011 at 4:56 pm
Coleman, are you saying that you overwork yourself? I understand that my question sways away from this article. I’m just wondering.
Twitter: StartYourNovel
August 4, 2011 at 8:14 am
I have a question and an observation.
1. Question. How do you define “the right blogs”?
2. Observation. Online relationships, as they are now called, are nothing new. What happens is, before the Internet, they were conducted over the mail, and primarily by scientists. Intense correspondence-based relationships developed among European scientists that didn’t even speak one another’s language and wrote in Latin instead. Some of these people never actually met face to face. Shall we say that their relationships did not matter? They kept in touch over decades, mourned each others’ deaths.
Thanks to the Internet, we can now enjoy similar relationships. Your categorical statement that online relationships do not matter is not entirely incorrect (in light of the argument you present afterwards) but it requires some elaboration.
True, physicality and presence count for much, but let’s not forget intense, intellectual relationships do not always require those.
A relationship matters as much as you want. It’s a decision you make. ‘Relationship’ is not synonymous with ‘friendship’ – let’s not forget that either.
Bell recently posted..What can Salvador Dali teach you about writing?
Twitter: smartboydesigns
August 4, 2011 at 9:23 pm
Maybe that’s why we’ve seen such great success with online dating? The intense connection is already in place before you even meet.
Hey Bill, thanks for commenting!
First, I define a ‘right blog’ as being unique for everyone, as long as it provides spiritual and/or mental growth. My right blogs are personal development-orientated, how about yourself?
Second, those are some valid points you raised, thanks for sharing them and for strengthening the conversation
Stuart recently posted..Redundancy And The Things It Brings
Twitter: wonderoftech
August 6, 2011 at 6:58 am
Bell, I love how you share your sociological history knowledge with us. Your perspective and comments are fascinating!
Carolyn recently posted..Tech-Knowledgy: What’s Data?
Twitter: knikkolette
August 4, 2011 at 8:54 am
Great post! We get so caught up in our day-to-day tasks we sometimes forget there’s a whole other world outside waiting for us to enjoy it. I enjoyed this post and am looking forward to reading more!
Knikkolette recently posted..You Really CAN Unlink Your Accounts from Klout
Twitter: smartboydesigns
August 4, 2011 at 2:24 pm
Thank you for taking the time to comment! This is probably your first time over here, so I’m excited to connect further throughout this year.
And you’re right….there’s an entire world out there waiting to be explored. Really, it’s all about balance, right?
Thanks for stopping by Knikkolette! It’s a pleasure to have you here, and I’m glad you enjoyed the post!
Here’s a thought for the day: there’s always more to life than we assume
Stuart recently posted..Redundancy And The Things It Brings
I really like this. I think sometimes we caught up in “our blogs” and we forget the things that are most important to us. My favorite parts of the day are when I am in a yoga class and I am completely cut off from the online world. It’s the one time where my mind is not thinking about the next post, or the next idea. My bf and I both have blogs and we have been much better about making sure the online world stays the online world. We value our time together and doing things that have no relation to the internet.
Meg recently posted..Music Movement Monday- The Joy Formidable
Twitter: smartboydesigns
August 4, 2011 at 9:13 pm
One of my favorite times of the day is the morning, when I meditate. Doing my best to clear my mind and think of nothing….you need that when you’re going so fast each day!
And most people think they can get that “recharge” of not thinking just by sleeping – but it really doesn’t work like that!
I agree with you there Meg, my girlfriend doesn’t have a blog, and so it can be hard to share my blogging interests with her at times. So I ensure that I have a chunk of the day devoted to blogging, and a chunk of the day devoted to her.
It’s a pleasure to meet you Meg
Stuart recently posted..Redundancy And The Things It Brings
Twitter: kikolani
August 4, 2011 at 10:08 am
I have offline days on the weekends. My hubby and I go out hiking or photographing interesting locations. Those are always refreshing days as it really is important to detach your brain from anything computer related (blogging, social media, emails, etc.).
I also have offline evenings during the week – if I feel my day job has taken too much out of me, I don’t force myself to get back on the computer at home. I just relax. Blogging and social media can wait. Life can’t!
Kristi Hines recently posted..Measuring Social Media ROI and Goal Conversions with Google Analytics 5
Twitter: smartboydesigns
August 4, 2011 at 9:24 pm
There’s something rather relaxing involved in photography. I don’t know what it is – but the intense focus of capturing the shot mesmerizes me.
I can only agree with you Christian…
Stuart recently posted..Redundancy And The Things It Brings
That’s very true Kristi – looking at what’s important, we can see what truly matters. That’s why I talked about the 2 deathbeds!
It’s been a pleasure to have you comment on my posts recently Kristi, I really appreciate it. Thank you
Stuart recently posted..Redundancy And The Things It Brings
Offline days are definitely good. I think many people get into blogging, or online in general, in hopes of escaping the shackles of a “real” job. And they end up working more on their blog than they would otherwise. It’s important to remember to actually live real life…not through a computer screen.
Eugene recently posted..5 “Old” Media Tips to Increase Audience Investment
Twitter: smartboydesigns
August 4, 2011 at 9:25 pm
Love that thought Eugene. That’s why one of my goals is to bring my work time online to 8 hours per day. I’m going to document the progress and write about it here.
That’s a smart thought Eugene, by trying to escape the shackles of their ‘boring’ job, they find themselves under new shackles. It’s like jumping from the frying pan into the fire.
Thanks for commenting
Stuart recently posted..Redundancy And The Things It Brings
Eugene is right Blogging is an escape from real life and sometimes we get to wrapped up on what we want to have and to be that we forget the good things we already have!
Jon recently posted..Hmm To pay or Not to pay? Spotify could be your answer!
This idea of unplugging seems quite prevalent. Kinda the same as video game addiction.
For your Canadian Readers, there is a TV show called “Operation Unplugged” that’s coming to the travel +escape channel, early in 2012. Its about taking the 8 most technology obsessed people and stripping them of their devices as they travel across the Country.
Check out their obsessed avatars at http://operationunplugged.com. I think you may relate to some!
Laurinda Shaver recently posted..The Extremely Personal Post
Twitter: smartboydesigns
August 4, 2011 at 9:26 pm
Oooh, that sounds really cool Laurinda. I like that idea a lot. Could be rather interesting. Sounds like it would be a good show for AE.
That looks amazing Laurinda! Thanks for sharing it with us today!
I love these kind of shows, they really test our ways of thinking, and introduce us to new possibilities and potential.
Take care, and thanks again
Stuart recently posted..Redundancy And The Things It Brings
Christian, thanks for featuring me on Smart Boy Designs!
It’s a pleasure, a privilege, and an honour
Stuart recently posted..Redundancy And The Things It Brings
Twitter: smartboydesigns
August 4, 2011 at 9:27 pm
You are welcome! I’m grateful to all those who have tweeted it out and shared. You’ve got a real knack for writing!
Twitter: luckyoliver70
August 4, 2011 at 1:05 pm
Hi Stuart,
I enjoyed this thought-provoking post, thanks for sharing your insights.
As we are all human beings, our lives are not only filled with problems but also determined by habits.
If we tend to wrk too much on our jobs, we will fall easily into that routine when we start blogging or building a business part-time or full-time.
There lies the problem: In our habits.
When I hate my boss and I fire him, I become my own worse boss.
Regarding the quality of online relationships, I have to second Bell on his comment that online relationships can be of excellent quality.
In other words: Just because it’s an offline relationship, it doesn’t automatically mean it’s a good one.
I had many poor offline relationships.
Take care
Oliver
Oliver Tausend recently posted..Money Management – How We Set Positive Causes For A Financially Free Future
Oliver, it’s a pleasure to meet you, and I love your avatar. Very elegant
You raise some interesting points, but I must ask you this question – which offline relationships have you learned from the most? I’ve had bad offline relationships before, and I learned a lot from them.
I’m also intrigued as to how you can fire your boss? Many people would love to know this secret
Stuart recently posted..Redundancy And The Things It Brings
Stuart, the deathbed analogy is very true for bloggers, it’s important to keep things in perspective. I actually think, if you do it right, blogging can improve your life, even in the areas you mentioned (relationships, problem solving, getting fit). I’ve found that one of the best ways to learn something is to plan on writing about it. That forces me to quickly become an expert on the topic. In other words, if you filter *real* life through your blogging platform, it can often help you achieve more success yourself.
I love/hate taking offline days. It’s super refreshing, but I’m always tempted to check my email or something
Andrew Olson recently posted..How to Create Your Life on Purpose
Hi Andrew, it’s a pleasure to meet you!
Real life does include blogging, I’d never dispute it. The trick is to balance it all out, so that blogging doesn’t overwhelm the rest of your life.
As for offline days, yes it’s tempting, but that’s the whole point
Thanks for commenting
Stuart recently posted..Redundancy And The Things It Brings
Twitter: girlygrizzly
August 4, 2011 at 6:56 pm
Stu ~ I love it when you surprise me by being you! (Somewhere I was expecting someone else!!)
This is a wise and wonderful post…. but it isn’t me. It could have been, maybe..(ok, well, probably) I have my 2 children, Lodge Mom Nancy and Boss. (Oh, and Ruger) I also, NOW, have a few incredible (I don’t have a word powerful enough) people I (ME) call friends as well as many great connections. I didn’t have this in my life before I discovered you all.
There are my deeply loved family (who, by the way, I am doing this ALL for…or at least it started that way) and great friends out of the whole deal. Friends who wont leave me (behind, because I can’t leave)… because they aren’t here! How can that be bad?
Also..I have to admit, when we med-evac-ed my MAC a couple of weeks ago, I was a little worried how it would be for me, as I do pay attention, not to be online after consistently being on for 16-18 hours a day- not having it for as long as it took. Happily surprised, no problemo!
I’ll be in the field and away soon, so I’ll be ok…but if you see me being too much over the coming winter zap me a link to remind me! I tell my trainees- “You can’t take care of anyone else, if you don’t take care of you- you have to be healthy, you have to be strong.” ~Amber-Lee
Amber-Lee Dibble recently posted..Family, It’s What Matters to Pioneer Outfitters
Hey Amber-Lee, it’s all me here, and it always will be. My voice is my own
Thanks for sharing your story, it’s wonderful to hear of your love for your family and passions. A love that would survive a lot, even the breakdown of a Mac!
Thanks for the quote at the end too, so very true
Stuart recently posted..Redundancy And The Things It Brings
Luckily, I have more things to do in my life than hang out in the internet the whole day and I actually enjoy an offline day, too!! And should I be on my death bed in the next couple of days, I won’t have any regrets
I think it’s all about balance and to live in the present. Offline and online -because many of my online friends are my offline friends, too and it’s a nice way to stay in touch with them from the Philippines to Germany, family members, former co-workers and all the other wonderful friends I haven’t met in person (yet). When my hubby comes home, all my time is dedicated to him.
Thanks for the post, I enjoyed reading it and you made me laugh,
Franziska San Pedro
The Abstract Impressionist Artress
Franziska San Pedro recently posted..How to Scare People Away From Your Artblog
Hi Franziska, it’s a pleasure to meet you! It sounds like you’ve got ‘your life screwed on the right way’, so to speak
I don’t live with my girlfriend at the moment, but when I see her, I devote my time to her. Blogging rarely comes into it, only when she’s watching her TV shows! Otherwise, it’s time with her, and that’s precious to me.
Glad you enjoyed the post Franziska, and thanks
Stuart recently posted..Redundancy And The Things It Brings
Good post Stu. I don’t schedule days away from the computer but I have about 5 activities thank outrank blogging and will never be displaced by blogging.
Riley
Twitter: smartboydesigns
August 4, 2011 at 9:11 pm
what are some of those activities? I’m curious now!
I’m glad to hear you have those activities Riley, fair play to you
Stuart recently posted..Redundancy And The Things It Brings
Twitter: smartboydesigns
August 4, 2011 at 9:13 pm
I’m seeing a theme here. Most of the bloggers who’ve taken the time to comment understand the importance of living away from the computer as well. I love that!
I agree – the best bloggers are sometimes those who more than understand the value of blogging. They understand the value of life
Stuart recently posted..Redundancy And The Things It Brings
virtually hitting the like-button
Franziska San Pedro recently posted..How To Attract People To Your Artblog
Good post Stuart – thank you,
I should start my comment from “…hello I’m Klaudia and I’m…” I know that @Laurinda mentioned that people should stay “unplugged” for a while…I guess it’s good to recharge batteries (our mind), stay close to family and friends, feel that off-line world.
I agree with that. But “Step away from blog” or ever “step away from internet” – I am not sure I can do that for long time (and I need to redefine “long time”)
Klaudia recently posted..Facebook on Your Wrist
Hey Klaudia, thanks for stopping by and commenting!
It depends on how you define ‘long time’, but any period of time where you begin to feel refreshed and rejuvenated is enough
Stuart recently posted..Redundancy And The Things It Brings
Hi,
Your points three main points are well taken, but since everything is not black or white . . .
Actually, blogging does act as a form of therapy, for some. True, it might not solve the problem, but a healthier mind, healthier attitude towards whatever subject, just might get someone closer to solving the problem.
I have to agree with @Bell above, friendships and relationships of worth can be created, fostered, and some collaborative work can be done via the digital waves. I wouldn’t say they are necessarily the end-all/be-all, but they cannot be categorically dismissed, either.
Appreciate your viewpoint. Now where’s my calendar?
Vernessa Taylor | CoachNotesBlog recently posted..Is Blogging Making You Sick? Doctor, Doctor!
Hey Vernessa, thanks for commenting! I appreciate it.
You’re right, there is no such thing as categorical black and white, everything has it’s shades. I thank you for adding to the conversation, as this only makes it stronger.
Take care
Stuart recently posted..Redundancy And The Things It Brings
Hey Stuart,
I’m glad you wrote this post. I was thinking about making a day without going on the internet soon! I appreciate the perspective you brought and the challenge you’ve given. I’m sure that the full offline day will be extremely productive.
Matt R recently posted..On Minimalism: Why I Disagree with Nina Yau
I think it will too Matt, provided you give the day a chance to work. If you decide after two hours that it’s not working, then it won’t work.
Thanks for stopping by
Stuart recently posted..Redundancy And The Things It Brings
Blogging and SEO is one of those things that makes you feel like you can never do enough.
Good advice, Stuart. I will take it to heart and take a day off.
Mark
Mark recently posted..Auto Blogging – Get Free Unique SEO Articles Delivered To Your Blog In A Click
That’s wonderful to hear Mark! Thanks for stopping by!
Will you be back to let us know how it goes?
Stuart recently posted..Redundancy And The Things It Brings
Twitter: jonathangaurano
August 5, 2011 at 5:02 pm
*I think I double commented*
I’m not arguing that this is post is horrible. On the contrary, I find it readable. However, we must admit to ourselves that this post is hilarious! Why?!? A post about a post that we should go offline. Yet, we’re all here writing comments and reading the blog post. This is irony at its very best my friends! This is all I have to say. (:
Twitter: smartboydesigns
August 5, 2011 at 8:40 pm
Wouldn’t you consider it a problem then…that if everyone knows they need to spend less time online blogging…but still spend just as much time online anyways?
Twitter: jonathangaurano
August 5, 2011 at 9:30 pm
I’m not circumventing the issue by saying that we (as a blogging nation) should not spend less time blogging. This is an issue, it is a problem, and Stuart is dead on – when we need to find offline activities.
My comment was merely expressing the irony of this blog post. I find it funny. The problem isn’t funny. But, the premise of the entire situation surrounding the subject of the blog and the actions around it…
I don’t usually associate my posts with ‘ironic’, but as long as you liked it, then I’m happy
Stuart recently posted..Redundancy And The Things It Brings
Hey Stu, great to see you here in Christian’s house. I know you’re really making the rounds right now.
My take on this is a little different. I don’t think we need a day off each week necessarily, but rather our focus should be on balance–physical, spiritual, emotional, mental, and temporal. Those are all areas I focus on each day, and I certainly try not to miss them. I think the problem is when people just allow the pendulum to swing so far over that the rest of their life suffers.
Regardless of semantics though Stu, it’s a great message and reminder, and I think you’re really doing great things mate.
Marcus
Marcus Sheridan-The Sales Lion recently posted..The Indescribable Commitment and Marriage that is Blogging
Hey Marcus, great to see you here!
As you know, I’m all about the balance, and can understand what you’re saying. Balance is key to a healthy, balanced life, so let’s get more of it!
Take care
Stuart recently posted..Redundancy And The Things It Brings
Twitter: wonderoftech
August 6, 2011 at 7:21 am
Hi Stuart and Christian, Great blog post, though I do get Jonathan’s irony and think his point is quite funny.
But anyway, back to your point, Stuart. I agree, Blogging can be all-consuming. Getting topic ideas, researching, writing, publicizing, and then reading all the other wonderful blogs such as this one. If you wanted to, you could easily spend all day every day on blogging.
So it’s important to keep balance in your life when you blog and taking a day off is a great idea. But it’s also a challenge because I don’t want my commenters to think I’m ignoring them if I don’t respond to a comment the same day.
In the spirit of the challenge, which I think is a brilliant one. I will take your challenge, Stuart. And I pick next Friday to step away from the computer. I will do it. I promise.
I confess I’m cheating a bit. I was planning to go “off the grid” anyway as I am going on vacation next week. I will be at sea on Friday. I could possible have very limited access to the internet, but I won’t take it. It will be easier for me because I couldn’t have been checking on my blog anyway, just email. But I will take the challenge and enjoy life at sea.
Thanks so much, Stuart, for your eloquent inspiration and to you too, Christian, for inviting Stuart to be a guest author.
Carolyn recently posted..Tech-Knowledgy: What’s Data?
Hey Carolyn, that sure was a great comment, thank you so much for contributing to the conversation.
I’ve had the problem of being offline when these guest posts have been out (here and six others), so I’ve had to catch up on comments numerous times these past few days! It’s being rough but I think I’m nearly done
Let us know how your offline day goes, I (and others) will be eager to hear about it
Stuart recently posted..Redundancy And The Things It Brings
Hey Stu! Great to see you here. I know there are times when I should step away from the blog. To me it doesn’t feel like work so that’s probably why I spend so much time doing it. I do have a regular job so I do get away from the computer. I love watching movies so I will go out to watch a new movie. Other than that, I spend a lot of time online. I’m still working on the foundation of my blog and business so that’s why I’m putting in more time. It would be nice one day to try and go a week w/o anything related to the internet. That would be pretty nice to try out.
Hope you have a great weekend!
Benny recently posted..Choose to Live an Epic Life
Hey Benny, glad you could stop by!
A week away would be interesting, if you could do it – sometimes it’s best to build yourself up gradually, one step at a time. A day, then two days, and so on.
Wishing you the best for your foundation-laying Benny
Stuart recently posted..Redundancy And The Things It Brings
Twitter: hajraks
August 7, 2011 at 10:47 am
Hey Stuart,
Another amazing post…
Although I think it all just boils down to addiction; we build our own addictions and we decide what our world revolves around. There is a difference between habit and addiction; having a schedule is a good habit; but overtly sticking to it at the cost of everything else gets to be a little bit dangerous.
Blogging is wonderful but it is for one to decide whether you want to make a life that just revolves around it. Moderation is the key to all, blogging or not!
Hope you have a wonderful day!
Good luck with the award Christian, voted again!
Hajra recently posted..What now?
Hajra, great to see you here at Christian’s place, it seems like you’re following me around
You’re good to clarify the difference between a habit and an addiction, excellent point. It’s something that we need to look at to make sure we don’t slip into addiction.
Take care
Stuart recently posted..Redundancy And The Things It Brings
Twitter: hajraks
August 9, 2011 at 9:34 am
I thought I shouldn’t but then you are EVERYWHERE I go…. can’t help not following you!
Hajra recently posted..What now?
I’m like a superhero of sorts, always showing up when everyone needs him
Stuart recently posted..When Life Gets In The Way
Twitter: adriennesmith40
August 7, 2011 at 12:21 pm
So, you are speaking about me but I’m not just “caught up” in my blog or blogging for that matter. I have a business I’m running online so the necessity to be online darn near 24/7 is real. But, there will come a time where I’m able to work less because I’ve built it up to that point.
I do try my best to not spend as much time online over the weekends just to give not only my mind but my body a rest from the computer as well. Sometimes I succeed better than others.
But you are right, at the end of your life what do you want to have accomplished?
Adrienne recently posted..If It Ain’t Broke, Don’t Fix It
Hey Adrienne, thanks for stopping by and being open with your words, I appreciate it.
That question, “what do we want to accomplish in the end?” has great significance for us, as it helps to direct us towards a more meaningful life, and to try and reduce the likelihood of despair.
Still, it’s always a ongoing battle to try to add meaning to our life. We keep trying
Stuart recently posted..Redundancy And The Things It Brings
Twitter: berget
August 7, 2011 at 10:23 pm
Hi Stu,
I guess this post isn’t directed at me, since I’m just back home from 5 weeks being 99% offline
On the other hand, this is a great post, and I know a lot of people who should take your advice. A few years ago, I took every wednesday offline, and I felt so much more energy when I finally got back online the day after. Now, I’m not online for that long. It’s harder to be online than offline with a wife and two kids
Jens
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You’re right Jens, this post doesn’t apply to you, I think you’re in the wrong place
I’m kidding, it’s great to have you here. You’re a perfect example of ‘stepping away from the blog’, and more qualified than me to write this post!
Glad you enjoyed it
Stuart recently posted..When Life Gets In The Way
I *had* to laugh at that first death bed scenario… Even though it’s not a laughing matter at all, it was still funny to read!! Is that bad? Anyway, I am right there with you on all of these points. Blogging, though beneficial in many ways, should not take a front seat to family and personal relationships outside of a computer! Thanks for reminding us of that.
Natasha
It’s my pleasure Natasha, and I’m glad you enjoyed the post!
And no, it’s not bad at all
Stuart recently posted..Summer School And The Meaning Of Life
Hi
This is so true. There has been times my family has let me
know I’ve been online to much. The last couple days has been
good and bad for me. The good part is i’ve not been online much
I’ve been spending the time with the kids and hubby. All so my Lap top
broke so i had no choice but to stay offline. Thanks for this post
i’ll let you know what i did on my next offline day
Bonnie Squires
bonnie ( recently posted..bonnie67: @SmartBoyDesigns Your welcome. I’m still reading it but what i’ve read so far is so true.
Twitter: smartboydesigns
August 11, 2011 at 8:47 pm
There’s certainly a fine balance. Especially when you have a family to tend to and be with. I sure hope you get to fixing that laptop. That’s just no fun at all! I hate when they break.
I actually need to buy a new one at the moment too.
Hi Christian
rite now the lap top sitting under my bed.
Hubby talking about fixing it which is great.
I’v been starting a new thing where i spend
time in the morning with the kids sitting around
the table having tea or coffee and talking about
what we will do for the day or what they did the day
before. than i do it again in the after noon so this way
i’ve time with the kids and i’ve my work time to.
the kids start school in about 2 weeks so i’m trying to
spend most of my time with them because i know i’ll miss
them and will be lost with out them here.
bonnie ( recently posted..bonnie67: @mylifestylemax @girlygrizzly Thank you Stacey but I still need to improve more on my written. Hello Amber Lee how are you
Hi Bonnie, thanks for stopping by!
It seems like your offline days are now forced, but I hope you can get the most out of them anyway. And I hope you can get your laptop fixed!
I’d worry if mine was broke, but I’ve survived before and I can survive again
Stuart recently posted..Summer School And The Meaning Of Life
Hi Stuart
Yep i’ve survive with out a computer before to.
those was the most fun days playing games with
the kids. only thing i miss now is not be able to play
physical sports with the kids. i loved showing our 22 yr old
son up in basket ball. he could never make a basket till
mom made the first one.
I hope you and Christian will drop by my new blog post.
You both have a great weekend
Bonnie Squires
bonnie ( recently posted..bonnie67: @mylifestylemax @girlygrizzly Thank you Stacey but I still need to improve more on my written. Hello Amber Lee how are you
blogging is really addicting.. and online life is really interesting.. but you have a point there.. maybe I should try going out someimtes.. :p
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I think it would help in a number of ways Aj
Stuart recently posted..Summer School And The Meaning Of Life
Twitter: vitalyvt
August 12, 2011 at 8:12 pm
Man, it sure can be difficult … as difficult as you make it. I remember months when I would post up to 10 articles a day with 500 words minimum … yeah you got that math right. It’s definitely important to upkeep your personal life, including health and everything else that goes on in the “real” world so to say. I still tend to go out often, and haven’t missed the gym in years … try to make it in anywhere between 2 to 4 times a week, as it helps on so many levels. Awesome reading everyone’s input and thank you for this guest post by Stuart, Christian.
Vitaly Tennant recently posted..How do you earn cash online? Or do you? Ideas here!
Crikey, that’s a lot of words! My mind boggles
It sounds like you’ve got some form of balance going on Vitaly, and that’s better than not having any balance at all! I wish you the best for the future
Stuart recently posted..Summer School And The Meaning Of Life
Christian – How old are you? I’m only asking because you MUST be wise beyond your years. This was a great topic to cover – As there are so many people blogging these days. The article got me thinking about what a sad existance bloggers CAN have if they don’t find a balance between their online life and their real life. I am making a point of it to take atleast one day a week for myself. No computer! It should give me more perspective of what I should be doing.
Twitter: smartboydesigns
August 15, 2011 at 10:48 am
Well, Relo, I appreciate the comment, but this post was actually written by my good friend Stuart Mills. But he IS wise beyond his years – so the compliment is well deserved!
Ha ha, thanks for the kind words Relo – I’ll just swap Christian’s name with my name
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Twitter: smartboydesigns
August 18, 2011 at 8:51 am
Perfect plan Stu.
That was an excellent blog post because I have just been thinking the same things LOL
Sheila Herd recently posted..The Numb Documentary – Here are the Trailers
Twitter: smartboydesigns
August 21, 2011 at 12:35 am
Well thank you for stopping by Sheila. How long have you been thinking about stepping away from your blog?
My blog is a very personal kind of one, sometimes I haven’t looked at it for months at a time, this week I’ve had time of work and I’ve been spending a lot of time pimping my blog, it needed doing, and I’ve had a lot more traffic as I’ve just joined twatter and a lot of networks. But….I am becoming obsessed, and I need to step away, thankfully I am back to work this week.
I thought your blog post was so brilliant, would you mind if I plagerised? is that the right word? and copied bits of it onto my blog?
Sheila Herd recently posted..The Numb Documentary – Here are the Trailers
Twitter: smartboydesigns
August 22, 2011 at 11:22 am
Hey Sheila. You most certainly are allowed to copy bits into your blog as long as your attribute and link back. I have no problem with that at all.
Appreciate you stopping by too. Great people like Stuart take the time to guest blog, and I always enjoy their incredible work and thought put into blog posts. They’re inspiring!
Good to hear you’re striving to stay balanced. We all need to do so. We can get overwhelmed quick if we let it!
Thanks ever so much for permission, however I think my thinking has moved on LOL I’m not sure it would fit, it was one of those random moments where you have a thought and google it and I landed up here on your blog. I am however following on Twitter now!
Sheila Herd recently posted..The Numb Documentary – Here are the Trailers
Twitter: smartboydesigns
August 22, 2011 at 12:01 pm
No worries Sheila. I do that often. And thanks for following and reading. I sure appreciate another reader. Always a blessing.
Sheila, I’m glad I was able to inspire you with this post, and if you need anything else from me, please ask
Twitter: smartboydesigns
August 25, 2011 at 8:10 pm
Just love all the great discussion that has occurred here. Fantastic!
Twitter: veryveryblessed
December 19, 2011 at 1:41 am
Yes, I have had offline days and it felt good. It was refreshing. There are times that I have other activities going on those days. During these times I often come up with new articles for my blog praise the Lord.
Twitter: smartboydesigns
December 19, 2011 at 12:26 pm
That time away often works to promote and expand the brain. I love it!
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