I recently came across a quote that deeply resonated with me, and I want to share it with you because it perfectly captures a critical aspect of living a fulfilled life:

“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.”
—Anne Lamott

This simple yet powerful statement got me thinking about how we, especially as nurses, often struggle with the concept of “unplugging.” We’re conditioned to push through, to keep going, and to constantly focus on the next task, the next patient, or the next shift. But what happens when we don’t allow ourselves the time to pause, to breathe, and to truly live in the moment?

The Cost of Not Unplugging

For many of us, the idea of taking a break can be anxiety-inducing. There’s a fear that if we stop, everything will fall apart, or that we’ll be left behind. But this mindset comes with a significant cost—not just to our mental and physical health, but to our overall quality of life.

When we don’t unplug, we force ourselves to live in a constant state of anticipation, always thinking about the future based on our past experiences. This not only drains our energy but also prevents us from truly being present in our lives. It turns us into robots, going through the motions without fully engaging with the world around us.

Living vs. Just Existing

It’s easy to get caught up in the future—planning, worrying, stressing about what’s next. But in doing so, we often miss out on the beauty of the present moment. We might be alive, but we’re not truly living.

I’ve realized that when I don’t allow myself to unplug, I’m robbing myself of the joy that comes from being fully present. I’ve missed out on moments with my family, moments that should have been cherished, all because I was too focused on what was ahead rather than what was happening right then.

The Power of Protected Time

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of what I call “protected time.” This concept, introduced to me by my good friend, is about intentionally setting aside time that is free from the demands of work, business, and even personal tasks. It’s time that’s exclusively yours, meant for recharging, reflecting, and reconnecting with what truly matters.

Protected time isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. It’s the time I choose to spend with my kids and husband, where I’m fully present, free from the distractions of my phone, emails, or the never-ending to-do list. It’s the time that reminds me why I started my own business in the first place—to have the freedom and control over how I spend my time.

Specializing as a Legal Nurse Consultant: Finding Your Niche touches on the importance of focusing your efforts where they matter most, similar to how protected time allows you to prioritize what truly matters in life.

Choosing to Unplug

Unplugging isn’t just about taking a break; it’s about giving yourself permission to prioritize your well-being. It’s about recognizing that your worth isn’t tied to your productivity or your ability to keep going no matter what. It’s about understanding that to be the best version of yourself—whether as a nurse, a business owner, a parent, or a partner—you need to take care of yourself first.

When I choose to unplug, I’m choosing to focus on what truly matters to me. I’m choosing to be present with my loved ones, to enjoy the moments that life offers, and to take control of my own narrative. The Ethics of Legal Nurse Consulting explains why prioritizing your well-being is crucial, not just for your personal life but also for maintaining professional integrity.

My Challenge to You

So, my challenge to you is this: Unplug. Reset. Choose.

Take the time to step back, breathe, and truly live in the moment. Give yourself the space to reflect on what’s important to you, and make the conscious choice to prioritize those things. Whether it’s spending time with family, pursuing a passion, or simply taking a moment to relax, make it a priority.

Because in the end, life is yours to own. It’s not just about surviving—it’s about thriving, about truly living in a way that brings you joy, fulfillment, and peace.

So go ahead, unplug for a bit. Your life will thank you for it.