This is another introspection sort-of post. I was talking with a friend the other day who challenged me on something. It’s something that I had already been mulling over.
Go the whole weekend without getting online.
Hrmmm. I don’t think I can do it, but I think I have to do it. Allow me to explain….I am a programmer. I primarily do web development. We just went through a significant system launch at work. There are actually a couple of initiatives that are all sort of getting rolled together at the end of the year while that launch is still settling in. No, the timing is not spectacular.
I tend to be a very committed person. You get to decide how involved you want to be and, consequently, how much of a difference you want to make. I want to make a difference.
As a result I spent a lot of nights working, and then a lot of nights watching “the system” and making sure things are right.
I got used to putting the kids down and getting back on the computer. The life of a hacker is not as glamorous as you would think. This stuff moves fast, and you have to work hard to keep your chops up.
But now I want to dial it back for a bit. Take a break. Try to salvage some of my brown hair before it all goes grey. OK - that last one is a pipe dream. I have children….
What would being “offline” look like, exactly? Would I have to turn off my iPhone, or just limit myself from using the data features? When Allison is on the computer do I shun her?
I would probably say: no AIM, web, or email. If you need me you know how to find me.
Am I a total freak here? Are there other people out there taking time to reflect with the holidays and new year looming? Post a comment and let me know.