Unplug for an Hour: A New Year’s Reset for Mortgage Loan Originators

As the year winds down and the holiday chaos subsides, it’s the perfect time to reflect and recharge. Let’s be honest—this season likely brought a whirlwind of wrapping paper explosions, endless group texts, and a constant flood of notifications. It’s almost as if your phone has been holding you hostage. So, here’s a bold suggestion: set it aside, just for an hour.

Take this time to unplug and let your brain breathe. The relentless pace of our work and personal lives can leave us overstimulated and overwhelmed, especially in an industry as fast-paced and high-pressure as mortgage lending. But stepping away from the screens doesn’t mean you’re shirking your responsibilities; it means you’re taking a moment to recalibrate and invest in yourself.

Try Something Tech-Free; Instead of scrolling or answering emails, try something that doesn’t involve a screen. Pick up that book you’ve been meaning to start but never got around to. Grab a pen and doodle—even if it’s just stick figures. Sit by the window and watch the world outside: trees swaying, a squirrel darting across the yard, or your neighbor wrestling with their trash can lid. These small, seemingly insignificant moments can be surprisingly grounding.

If sitting still feels too unfamiliar or uncomfortable, engage in an activity with your hands. Cook a meal you’ve been craving, tackle that pile of laundry, or even build a house of cards. These simple tasks can help anchor you in the present moment, letting your mind wander freely without the constant hum of notifications.

Why It Matters; The holidays often leave us overstimulated, and that’s completely normal. Taking just one hour to unplug offers your brain the chance to reset. When you step away from the hamster wheel of texts, calls, and social media updates, you create space to rediscover clarity and focus—qualities that are invaluable in your work as a loan originator.
When you’re ready to return to your phone, it will still be there, buzzing and pinging as always. But after your hour of unplugging, you’ll likely feel more centered and refreshed—more yourself. This renewed sense of balance can be the perfect foundation for tackling the challenges and opportunities of the year ahead.

Make It a Habit; Consider making this a regular practice. Whether it’s once a week or even just once a month, dedicating time to unplug and reconnect with the world around you can do wonders for your mental well-being. And as a mortgage professional, a clear, focused mind is one of your most powerful tools.

So, as we bid farewell to this year and gear up for the next, give yourself the gift of an hour to unplug. You’ve earned it, and your future self will thank you.