MaineBusiness.com

The Power of No Power

Before you think I’m launching into a Zen dissertation on the power of the universe, I’m talking about NO POWER from a purely functional and technical level.

Last week I blew the power supply on my main computer. My apologies, this is why I posted no blog entries for the past few days. I had intended to keep up to date with my laptop while I traveled to New York for some family and business over the holidays. Alas, I could not get my internet connection working properly in my hotel.

Almost two weeks without sufficient computer power to stay in touch and continue to work. Literally NO POWER, as far as computers went.

I admit I threw a little temper tantrum. My business life is very dependent on my computers these days. I did, however, have choices. I am a good boy and I subscribe to the Carbonite back-up service, so I could have downloaded my contacts and files to another computer. I could have used this disaster as an excuse to upgrade my laptop and start fresh. I could reverted back to the ancient practice of pen and paper.

I chose to return to my philosophical roots and explore the Power of No Power…I decided to let it go for a few days. I actually took a couple of legitimate days off. I worked out, I relaxed, I watched football and had dinner with friends and family.

Guess what happened? NOTHING! No big disasters, no grave emergencies. I had to reschedule a couple of meetings and I got a little backlogged on email and some paperwork.

Nobody died, the world did not stop spinning and I came back refreshed, recharged and ready to launch into business life full-steam ahead! That’s the Power of No Power!

Balance is a dynamic component of power. Sometimes it’s right to be running full steam ahead. Sometimes is great to just let go and relax. Sometimes failed technology provides a natural and welcome break from the contemporary pace of life.

Next time your computer blows up; I recommend a day off!

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