Make Technology Work for You, Not Against You

Technology has not only improved the quality of life for countless people, but is has changed the way the world does business. However, with devices and software in almost every aspect of our personal and work lives, is it possible to get stressed by all the tech?

We are surrounded by apps that do everything—track our exercise, keep us connected with friends and coworkers, and entertain us with games, music, shows, and more.

According to a recent Harris Poll, 45 percent of Americans said they try to “unplug” once a week. And 60 percent reported that they would like members of their family do the same. Those who do unplug say they are seeking more quiet time, more family time, less stress, and more personal time.

But tech stress can be more than being overloaded or disconnected from family. It can include being frustrated by technology itself. At work, especially, employers may place demands on us to use equipment or programs that are difficult to use or that don’t work well with our own devices, preferences, or personal work styles.

If you have a home computer, a work laptop, a personal tablet, a wearable, a smartphone, work apps, calendars that won’t sync, it can be overwhelming. So if you feel like your technology has become more of a burden than a benefit, there are a few things you can do:

• Schedule short times to unplug regularly. Weekly breaks from personal and professional technologies will give you a chance to focus on health, family, etc.
  
  
• Take longer vacations where you can turn off work emails and notifications. You’ll come back refreshed and ready to take on your work again.
  
  
• Talk to your employer about ways to consolidate or better integrate technologies. Your IT team may have tips to make all your devices and programs easier to use and run more smoothly.
  
  
• Clear out what you don’t need. Do a quarterly tech cleanse and eliminate programs, apps, and even hardware that is cluttering up your work and life.

Remember that technology should make your life better. If it’s not, it’s time to take a look at what you can do to get rid of tech stress.