Have you ever noticed how a spinning fan starts to wobble or a laptop begins to overheat when it has been running for far too long? There is a certain rhythm to technology where a simple pause, a moment of being disconnected from the power source, allows everything to reset and find its balance again. Anne Lamott’s beautiful words remind us that we are not so different from the devices we rely on every day. We often carry the weight of our responsibilities, our worries, and our endless to-do lists until we feel like we are about to short-circuit. We forget that our internal systems need that same quiet interval to clear the clutter and regain our strength.

In our modern, fast-paced world, we are constantly plugged into something. We are connected to work emails, social media feeds, news alerts, and the expectations of everyone around us. It feels like being a little duck like me, trying to swim against a very strong current without ever touching the shore to rest my wings. We mistake constant activity for productivity, but true vitality comes from the moments when we step away. When we refuse to unplug, we don't just get tired; we lose our ability to function with clarity and kindness.

I remember a time when I felt completely overwhelmed by a project I was working on. My mind was racing, my feathers were ruffled, and I couldn't seem to find the right words for anything. I kept pushing, thinking that if I just worked harder, I would find the solution. It wasn't until I decided to walk away, leave my phone in another room, and sit quietly by the pond watching the ripples in the water that the fog finally lifted. By unplugging from the noise, I gave my brain the space it needed to reboot. When I returned to my desk, the answers felt much closer to the surface.

Taking a break isn't a sign of weakness or a failure to keep up; it is a vital part of maintenance. Whether it is a ten-minute walk, a quiet cup of tea, or a full afternoon of silence, these small disconnects are what allow us to stay functional and bright. It is an act of self-care that honors our human limits. So, I want to gently encourage you to look at your current state of mind. If you feel the heat rising or the gears grinding, please give yourself permission to step away from the plug for a little while. See how much brighter you shine after a moment of stillness.