What does a modern college student learn from working at TOBET? Some Theology of the Body, of course, which I now know can be applied in so many practical, day-to-day ways.
Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Samuel Mach. While studying for my Computer Science and Philosophy degrees, I am working part-time as TOBET’s technology specialist. When I first started working at TOBET, I had what every college student has: a phone that’s always on. As I worked, my phone would frequently buzz. I would dismiss it, and the cycle would repeat. Despite rarely receiving any important notifications, I kept the ringer on.
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It’s ok to put the phone down for a minute.
What did I learn? Originally, the natural rhythm of my work (and others!) was disrupted repeatedly. Distraction was immediate and recurring. It threw my coworkers off-balance and disrespected the peaceful silence in which we worked. Now, the work cycle flows smoothly. With my phone set aside, I’m able to focus on work, while my coworkers appreciate the lack of interruption.
Here’s one simple yet profound lesson from working at TOBET: when working, set aside the things distracting you from the task at hand. Keeping your attention on your phone is like keeping one foot in the door: your mind isn’t willing to focus when your body could leave at a moment’s notice. Be where your body is!
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A good analogy for what Sam’s phone felt like in a quiet office.
Samuel Mach is a Computer Science and Philosophy undergraduate at the University of Texas, Arlington.
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