“He listens to me every time I call to him.” Psalm 116:2 GNT
Being very engrossed in and defined by the work you do makes it harder to unplug when you’re out of the physical work environment.
The work just continues in your mind. It stays there, whispering at every given chance. Before you know it, you’re deep in thought and whatever you’re supposed to be doing at the present moment takes the bench.
Listening becomes hard. Communication becomes difficult for the other party and you forget what it means to be present.
Being married to someone whose profession is based on improving communication between two people, I’ve had to learn the art of unplugging.
In my home, whenever my full presence is required (meaning I’m physically there, I can feel the pulse of the conversation emotionally and have the spiritual connection to give answers), I must have prescheduled that time. We both realized over time that I’m not too good with sudden conversations.
Impromptu conversations get lost in my mental trash can, no matter how important they are. And when work is in front of me, I might just shrug at negative, heartbreaking news because my empathy level for anything external at that point is below zero.
Unplugging from work mentally and emotionally in order to be emotionally present for other parts of life has to be a very intentional act, especially for workaholics.
The good thing is we have God to model. To be present every time we’re called on requires fast internal regulation. The ability to be flexible requires practice and time. But fortunately, it’s not impossible.
Whether it’s your coworker or spouse, listening requires your presence. Don’t just hear what the person says. Be ready to respond when needed and empathize along the way. It shows you care.
Every time you’re called on, listen.
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