Israeli entrepreneur and businessman Adam Neumann appeared on the popular podcast "The Diary of a CEO" and spoke about his Shabbat observance, which he has maintained for the past decade. For him, those 25 hours without a phone and without technology have become one of the most significant parts of his week.
"About ten years ago I started keeping Shabbos," Neumann said. "For those who aren't familiar, what that means is that on Friday we disconnect from technology for 25 hours. I spend the time with my family, with my friends, and take part in something bigger than myself."
"It's a real addiction"
According to Neumann, the first few hours without the phone are enough to show just how dependent we've become on it. "If you take a 24-hour break from your phone, in the first two hours you'll see how many times your hand goes to your pocket because you think the phone is there. It will show you how addicted you are, because it's a real addiction."
But once you get used to the disconnect, he says, the good part arrives. Neumann recommends planning ahead, a meal with friends, time with family, or a trip outdoors and simply allowing yourself to be without the screen.
"Some of your best ideas will come exactly then"
"When you get to hours 22, 23, and 24, you feel amazing," he said. "Some of the best ideas you've had recently will come exactly then, who you need to be with, which business to focus on, and what your next step should be."
For Neumann, Shabbat has long since become more than just 25 hours without technology. "That time when we're simply together has been amazing for us," he concluded.
