My computer broke: An exercise in patience by Devon Domanski.
For so many of us, we rely heavily on technology to keep us connected. Whether it’s a laptop for work, a tablet for personal use, email accounts to communicate, or just having WiFi access, some of us may think, “What the H-E-double hockey sticks would I do if my (insert favourite tech functionality or device) broke?”
After having to part with my laptop for 2 weeks while it underwent repairs, I know what my answer is….
While working on client projects a few weeks ago, my laptop died. Just died. And sadly, I don’t possess the know-how to troubleshoot these kinds of issues myself. So I put my faith in the hands of professionals and surrendered it until they could figure out what was going on.
Once the laptop was out of the house, I had a choice. Instead of stressing out about the unknown and vibrating negative energy from every part of my being, I decided that I would just accept the situation for what it was and carry on in the best way I could.
In the days that followed, I found myself finding ways to adapt to the situation so I could still continue to be as productive as possible. Whether it was going to library labs to use computers and internet, or implementing the somewhat lost art of pen to paper writing, I survived. It was at times a challenge, and a little different than what I’m accustomed to, but there was a satisfaction in knowing that my life is not totally ruled by technology (COMPLIMENTED, yes; RULED no!).
Outside of the inconvenience of not having my laptop for work, I was beginning to really appreciate being ‘unplugged’. I accepted the limitations – knowing they were temporary – and embraced the creative opportunities that came from this situation.
When the kind people who had my machine diagnosed the problem and fixed it, they told me that I was a dream client; that I was friendly whenever they spoke to me, and they appreciated my patience. I told them, “I can imagine that many people come in feeling frazzled – I felt that way, too. But I figured, what good will it do for me to stress more about it? I trusted that you guys knew what you were doing, and all I could do is hope for the best. And if I can keep my energy positive, then maybe that will help the situation in some way – because that’s really all I can offer.”
I am pleased to have my computer back this week (working like a dream!). I truly appreciate how much it helps me work more efficiently. But I am thankful for the BIGGER lesson I learned: While technology enhances my life, I know it’s not the only way I can get things done and sometimes it feels really good to get back to basics! And I learned that I have more patience than I give myself credit for… I just need to activate that quality more often.
So while I don’t imagine (or want) it happening again, what the H-E-double hockey sticks would I do if my laptop broke? I’ll just keep breathing, smiling, and moving forward as best I can. Things have a way of working out in the end.