What I learned from dropping my cell phone down an elevator shaft

Yesterday, while I was coming back from meeting with a fellow entrepreneur in Marina Del Rey, I dropped my beloved  blackberry q10 down the elevator shaft.

I was in total shock and in a bit of a panic because I’m not usually that careless of a person. I love my blackberry…yes you can make fun of me it’s ok.

I went to the leasing office of the building and they told me it would cost about $500 to get a company to get the phone out and that most likely it’s crushed like a pancake. I told them I had a plastic case on it. They tried to talk me out of ordering the service but my gut said to do it.

I had a full 24 hours to reflect on the experience and what struck me was how lost I felt without my phone even though I don’t use it that much. It’s almost like an emotional crutch that makes me feel safe. I always tell myself that if anything bad happens I can call for help, or if plans change I can be reachable.

At that point I let it go and prepared for the worst case scenario. I assumed that this was the universe’s way of telling me I needed to upgrade to an iPhone. Get on the bandwagon…get with the times.

I priced iPhones on the Apple Store and configured one that came out to $963. CRAZY FOR A PHONE!

The entire time my gut felt like something was off. Even if my phone wasn’t functional I would want to have it back because my personal data is worth at least $500 to me if stolen.

I thought the phone would be delivered to my door around 10 am but it wasn’t. Later that day when I got back from a bike ride there was an envelope at my door. It was my cell phone!!

When I opened the envelope my phone was without its case and was fine. Even the battery was still charged at 80%!  Only 2 scuffs were on it but it was totally operational and FINE.

WOW I was in total shock..so elated and relieved that I didn’t have to make a rush purchase of almost $1,000.  I can now take my time and select a new phone carefully.

What I learned during the process:
•       be present in the moment and not constantly on my phone
•       protect and backup your data
•       let go of the outcome
•       trust your instincts
•       be prepared for change,  it’s inevitable

See my previous post about how to deal with change.