I’ve had enough of being tethered to technology. So I’ve come up with a range of strategies to cut the cord.
I recognise technology has transformed our lives mostly for the better, especially for soloists. It’s no coincidence that soloism has grown exponentially since the information revolution and every day I am grateful for the privilege of being able to work from home.
But it also has a lot to answer for.
I can see ways business technology has eroded, rather than enhanced, my life. So this is what I’m going to do.
Tune-out Tuesday
One afternoon a week I will be entirely unleashed from communication devices. This week I plan to brainstorm a work challenge using pen and paper, write a birthday card to an old friend and edit a (hard copy) report.
Have no-techno zones
Recently I realised that, all too often, the first thing our three young kids see in the morning is me and their father online. We may be raising digital natives, but surely we need to be more present for them. So no more ‘net heading’ in the bedroom or dining room.
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Regroup my atomised attention
In the last day I’ve watched a movie while browsing Facebook, chatted via SMS while making dinner and browsed a forum while breastfeeding. Living life online and offline concurrently is knackering and does no favours for my ability to focus.
Stop airbrushing
Facebook enables me to endlessly edit my experiences and position myself in the optimum light. For every cheery beach shot of my kids, I should upload a picture of them having a meltdown because I denied them ice cream.
Keep boundary-creep at bay
Professionally I’ve always maintained strong boundaries with clients, but I’m finding these tougher than ever to maintain. Ten years ago a client would happily leave a message, whereas now, many expect you to respond at their behest. I will stick to my guns here, ensuring clients understand when I’m available upfront.
It’s an illusion that constant connectedness equates to greater productivity, or to getting more out of life. The real value of technology hangs on our ability to stay in control of it and stop it from seeping into our very existence.
Enough is enough!
Are you with me? Or do you think I’m being a Luddite? Share your comments below and I’ll read them once I’m back online…