After two years of government lockdowns, self-imposed isolation, masking, getting our shots and boosters, and constantly being paranoid, it finally happened; my family and I caught Covid at the end of our vacation. We were at our wit's end because of all the isolation, and we really needed some time off, or we would have collectively exploded.

As I work my way back to my routine, I am also taking this opportunity to consider my relationship with social media. The time away has allowed me to consider what I am posting and why.

Lately, the topic of "focus" has also been popping up for me in my work and personal life, and I have been asking myself, how can I bring more focus and deep work into my life? The first step seems to bring more intention to how I use social media. Instead of using it as a crutch when I am bored or when I am procrastinating, I can use it at to post important ideas and announcements.

During my vacation, I read Cal Newport's book "Digital Minimalism - Choosing a Focused Life in a Noisy World" which added even more urgency to taking a break from social media and the distractions it can cause. My main takeaway from the book is for me to develop a purposeful and intentional relationship with social media and technology and spend quality leisure time focusing on offline activities that bring me joy, such as writing, running, baking, and other creative endeavors.

Looking at the silver lining in my current situation, I believe all this has happened because I have wanted to improve my focus and to be able to do deep work.

So yes, I got Covid. I was feeling down about it for some time. Still, now that I look back, it was through it that I could finally focus on what is essential and be able to make the changes I need to do more of what I want to be doing instead of being distracted by social media and technology.

Life finds a way to show us what we need; we have to be open to receiving the message.

I wish you health and happiness.

Till next time, stay strong!

Cheers,

Rizwan