5 Ways to Keep Technology From Taking Control

 

I would say that most people these days are connected to technology in some way or another.  Electronic check lists, time cards, to-do lists, banking apps, emails, and not to mention the fun things of technology like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and all of the millions of apps that have been and are being created.

Technology is supposed to make our life easier and the trouble sometimes becomes that it is a huge time killer.

Between emails being answered, appointments being scheduled and checking/updating the status of our Social Media accounts, we have less time than ever.

Don’t get me wrong, I love technology! I love that Social Media can connect me with the most amazing people that live half way around the world and lifelong friendships are formed and kept.  I love that technology makes the world a little smaller and that we can truly take advantage of that.

There has to be a balance and sometimes keep things balanced is much harder than we would imagine it would be.

How do we take back control of technology?

1.  Set Times to Check Emails – Have set times each day to check emails.  Figure out what works best for you and then stick to it. This obviously won’t work if all of your work is generated via emails.  Even if this is true, check your email and then “complete” the necessary items before checking again.
2. Turn off Notifications – Turning off notifications and checking your accounts on your own time is a huge way to take back control of technology.  Instead of checking your accounts every time your phone alerts you, you are only checking when you have some time to do so.  I know some families keep in contact via Facebook because not everyone has a smartphone and if this is the case, then find what works for you and do it.
3. Make Dinner Time Technology Free Time – While you and your family are sitting around the table discussing the day or the future, make that time technology free.  Spend time laughing and enjoying the meal and company.
4. Cut Down on Emails – Do you have your Social Media notifications sent to your email box? Consider changing this or doing away with it completely.  You’ll save yourself hours from deleting things that you’ve already seen.
5. Limit Your Internet Time – Consider setting time limits to your internet browsing.  Also rewarding yourself (or children) with some play time on the internet for a job well done may actually increase productivity.

These are a few ideas to get you started in taking control of the technology in your world.

Do you already have things in place to help you keep control over technology? I’d love for you to share them below in the comments so that others can be encouraged from you.

I’m honored to be part of a wonderful team of influencers with Verizon Wireless.  Each week the #VZWBuzz team offers Twitter Chats that discuss the latest and greatest techy gadgets and how to get the best use from them.  The Verizon Insider’s Guide is full of helpful information and is free to anyone who would like to receive it, including non-Verizon customers.

All opinions are my own and no compensation was received in the writing of this post.

 

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