Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Taking a break :: Freedom software and the need for a Sabbath



No we're not going away again... its just that I saw this app in Lifehacker called Freedom :: It is...
an application that disables wireless and ethernet networking on an Apple computer for up to three hours at a time. Freedom will free you from the distractions of the internet, allowing you time to code, write, or create. At the end of your selected offline period, Freedom re-enables your network, restoring everything as normal.
I really could do with this software... as a means of taking me offline for a while. Thing is... with my iPhone now... I tend to be more connected, especially at times where I wasn't before... on the train or in Starbucks on my lunch break, for example.

This software got me thinking about the Sabbath too... a day of rest... no work... a time for family and for God.

We all need to unplug. I need to unplug. I benefited from not being online while in Italy... I connected with my wife and we'ans... I read... I was able to listen without the noise of normal life and seek inspiration through eyes that we opened.

I could do with a Sabbath. Time away from real life. Time to discover what is real in this "real life". I think we all could. That's why I think Freedom is a great idea. Forced downtime... Time to recharge the batteries and clear the head.

I think this world would greatly benefit from a move towards a 24 / 6 / 313 lifestyle... workers need time off... tired bodies need to recuperate and creative juices need inspiration! I think we would all benefit from a "buy nothing day" once a week rather than just once a year too.

Just wish they did a version for the iPhone too...

2 comments:

Stewart said...

I don't get it. I get the need for being disconnected. I'm working on 4 presentations just now and have done most of the work using paper and pens and millions of post-its. My solution to the distraction of the laptop was to switch it off. If I'm working on the laptop but don't want disturbed off go Skype, email and twhirl. Why use an app for that? But being disconnected helps me when I'm trying to write or just get something done.

weareallghosts said...

@Stewart

You have discipline. when it comes to the net... I tend not to... so something that removes the net from my reach appeals to me. It forces me to walk away... take time out... relax... and I like that.

Be glad you have discipline!

T

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