Confessions of a noise addict.

by Todd Foley

My name is Todd, and I’m a noise addict.

Like so many people today, I’m constantly plugged in. My Internet browser gives me access to everything from world news updates to celebrity gossip to Pinterest, plus all the happenings in my Facebook and Twitter spheres. I feel a constant “need” to be in-the-know. If I step away from my desk for a moment, I can take my smartphone with me to make sure I don’t miss anything.

When I’m at work, I’m constantly switching back and forth between Word documents and exchanging emails with internal clients to communicate about the several projects I’m working on. Music keeps me moving along – anything from Skrillex to my vast singer-songwriter collection.

That’s my work.

Want to know the most crucial part of the day?

The 15 minute walk outside when I completely unplug from everyone and everything.

By having a full-time job of working with words, I’m finding it increasingly necessary for me to intentionally disconnect from all the noise of news, social networks and blogs each day – even if just for 15 minutes.

My workplace isn’t located in the most serene setting, but there’s enough undeveloped land nearby that allows for a quiet stroll around the block. I simply enjoy observing the world around me. There are several different styles of homes [double-wides, Tudor style and bungalows]. When I look up, I have a clear view of B.C.’s stunning Coast Mountain range. I’ll often walk by either residents of nearby homes or employees of other companies in the area. Or there’s the grunting jogger who laps me three times when I’m on my walk.

More than anything, unplugging puts me before God in total silence. I either pray for things that are on my mind or face the issues I spent the morning avoiding. Silence forces me to reconnect with myself, with my Maker and with the world around me. Essentially, it fills me up with new words to use for the rest of the day.

I want to know what YOU do to disconnect from the noise and renew your creative energy. Better question: Do you get re-energized by disconnecting or by staying connected? Please share in the comments below – I’m sure I’ve got lots to learn from you!

“It is only when we silent the blaring sounds of our daily existence that we can finally hear the whispers of truth that life reveals to us, as it stands knocking on the doorsteps of our hearts.” – K.T. Jong