Despite being > 40, I’ve embraced the digital age.  I pride myself in being hyper-connected, online and available and on top of the latest trends & happenings. In this fast paced world, you have to be to stay current!  Technology is ever changing and the stakes are high to achieve.

Turning Off Technology and the Work Rat Race

Sometimes, these worlds collide.  Sometimes, they are distinctly broken apart.  But, yesterday, I decided to get out of the rat race for the day.  I spent 7+ hours at the CT State Middle School Track & Field Meet…in the pouring rain! Turning it all off for a day gave me some time to think.

When asked how do you respond to the following questions:

• What makes you happy?

• What’s important to you?

I quickly respond, my twin 14 year-old boys, James & Kinser. We’re an athletic, boisterous family.  We laugh a lot, LOVE to cook and entertain frequently. Sports are also an integral part of our lives.

Benefit of Participating in Sports

Studies show that taking part in sports is good all-around for young teens; physically, socially, and mentally. Participating in sports develops character, competition, and yes it’s about winning.  I’m not one of those sappy Moms who think everyone should get a trophy!  Playing sports is also about conditioning, discipline, setting goals, and ultimately achieving more than you thought possible.  Sports build confidence, leadership and healthier bodies.  It’s another venue that teaches the next generation “the harder the challenge, the bigger the reward.” Remember that scene from “A League of Their Own?” The “hard” is what makes it great!

In my line of work, I recruit and coach early talent, solve problems and drive team performance.  My passion for my career stems from my athletic roots. Competition is what drives the human spirit.  It’s a good thing, and it’s more relevant today than ever before.  Team sports are important because they develop young minds to embrace the attitude of competition and cooperation.  In business, supporting this type of culture provide the best setting for creativity and top performance. Two very different worlds can incorporate one mindset. Gamification is a top trend in business technology- taking the essence of games- fun, play and passion- and applying it to business initiatives such as sales training, back-office tasks and career counseling.

Staying Sharp & Focused

Life can get overwhelming.  It’s easy to get distracted…and there are so many distractions. Taking the day off yesterday to watch my boys compete, allowed me to recharge my batteries.  To stay SHARP & FOCUSED, you have to design your time around those things that are most important to you.

It was thrilling to watch Kinser fly across the finish line; my heart surged with pride watching James hurl the heavy shot put through the air (and later, having the honor to put the medal around his neck).

There still are glass ceilings to be broken, paths to be paved and boundaries to be pushed. But we’ll have to catch up later.  I’m taking a break. I’m off to watch my son’s lacrosse tournament.

Lisa Bonner is the Assistant Vice President of Contemporary Work Practices at The Hartford.  She is the proud mother of very active 14 year-old twin boys and resides in Suffield, Connecticut. Connect with her on LinkedIn.  The opinions expressed are personal and not related to The Hartford.