Daniel Mulloy | Chief Executive Officer , ARTA

— Unknown

English business magnate Richard Branson was once quoted as saying , “ Succeeding in business is all about making connections .” I ’ m not sure he is entirely right . I think that succeeding in business , and in life , is all about connecting with the right people at the right time , while learning to disconnect from the right people at the right time .

In today ’ s digital age and with growing life stresses , it ’ s becoming harder and harder to disconnect . With the advent of technology and social media , it seems like we are always within reach .

While these technological advances definitely have their place , they also make it hard for someone to spend some quality time with oneself . As with most things , there is a time and place for everything . A time to connect with business colleagues , a time to connect with friends and family , and a time to disconnect and spend quality time doing something that helps us find and refocus ourselves .

Quality time alone helps you “ recharge your batteries ” and helps you focus on the life challenges that are ahead of you . As silly as it sounds , we are better at connecting than at disconnecting , but when you find that place where you can separate yourself from life ’ s distractions , it is amazing what happens . When you disconnect :

● You calm your mind , opening new avenues of awareness .

● You find simple answers to difficult questions .

● Revelations appear for what you want to do in the coming days , weeks , and months ahead .

● Your way of thinking becomes amazingly clear and determined , which makes your thoughts more productive and useful .

● Your quality time away makes quality time with loved ones more meaningful .

● You can hear your own thoughts .

● The world keeps on turning . Emails will still be there when you “ plug back in ,” and during the time you were disconnected , you ’ ll find that nobody really missed you . There are benefits to disconnecting , but a new question arises . How do I disconnect ? There are some simple things you can do to disconnect , including :

● turning off your computer , tablet , television , or smartphone

● scheduling “ alone time ” in your calendar

● taking a walk ( in the forest perhaps )

● Being in the present , and enjoying the surroundings that you are in . If those are not ideal surroundings , find someplace that brings you a feeling of calm .

● actually saying goodbye to people

● powering down before bed

● doing something that you love to do .

While it is not always easy , trust me , disconnecting to improve your personal , physical , and mental health and wellness is also the perfect way to clear your mind and to see all of life ’ s possibilities . news & views WINTER 2021 | 7