It’s now 19.00 and so time to reflect on how well, or otherwise, I managed with this action. On a positive note this is the first time I’ve opened up my laptop, something I would often have done intermittently during the day. Something that has made it easier is that I have had a busy day. This morning I watched a current affairs programme and then went to our Quaker meeting. Afterwards a friend came back for lunch and in the afternoon we went to listen to some live music. After this I visited another friend who opened her home for a meditation session. And then I came home …

I have had my phone with me most of the day and have occasionally looked at it. However I have been very conscious of not doing so when I am with people. I do try to be aware of this anyway but perhaps I have been so more today? So a combination of time away from my laptop and decision not to look as often at my mobile has given me opportunities to focus more on who I am with. I think especially not having my head down on the computer has meant that when someone has engaged me in conversation, I have been less distracted.

I am also very aware that I can ‘waste’ time by browsing, and spending too much time on social media – today I have been far more focused on how I am using digital devices (in particular my phone and laptop). I will certainly try to be sensitive to this again, even on a ‘normal’ day when perhaps there are more temptations. And if I find myself not paying real attention to someone I am speaking with, I will try to amend this.