12:55 PM

Will Silicon Valley 'Disconnect to Reconnect' On October 4?


Matthew Reinhold writes:

I want to tell you a little about our project. It's a movement that asks for Oct. 4, to be the day for disconnect to reconnect. A gathering group of mostly Californians, feel overly accessible and need a second to catch their breath, enter the 'Day of Disconnect.'

As Silicon Valley tirelessly endeavors to simplify our lives though tech and innovation, is it possible that with telecom's constant interruption, the creativity's flow might hindered? Maybe this 24 hours of peace can lead to the next Uber, AirBnB or Tindr? 

He adds that the idea belongs to Mac Reynolds of Reynolds Management; Jurgen Grebner, Executive Vice President of Interscope Records; and Anjula Acharia-Bath, CEO of Desi Hits.

Mac Reynolds quote:

Jurgen and I came up with the idea while traveling overseas for work and lamenting the constant onslaught of emails and calls we receive, regardless of time zone. We work in an industry that, like many others, requires us to be available constantly. I used to practice law at a large firm in L.A., where I literally carried two phones everywhere, so I'm no stranger to the feeling.

The concept behind the Day of Disconnect is simple: take at least one day a year where you commit to no calls, texts, or emails. It's almost unfathomable to imagine leaving our smartphones at home, and yet I didn't even own a cell until I was 21 (and somehow got along fine). Somewhere along the line, we all forgot what it means to unplug. I love technology as much as the next person, but as soon as you can't live without a convenience you are in the dangerous waters of addiction.

By setting aside one day as a global communications ceasefire, we can remove the fear and guilt that comes from being the "only one" taking a break - and we owe it to each other.

I often disconnect for days, and I find it very useful in generating creativity and inspiration. It allows me to have an engaging conversation with myself -- though not too loudly to scare my neighbors :)