Technology & Life Balance

Guest Post by Linda Samuels, CPO-CD     http://theothersideoforganized.com

Pay attention to the effects of your time spent with technology. Many of you will relate to this. I spend a fair amount of time using my computer for e-mailing, Internet surfing, bookkeeping, researching and writing. Let’s not even talk about the additional time some of us spend on texting, iPads, Blackberries and the like. One fall Saturday, I spent most of that day away from my computer. Instead of sitting in front of the monitor, I used the time to create, wrap gifts and write with paper and pen instead of a keyboard. I loved my low-tech time.

At the end of the day, I returned to my computer to do some work. I could actually feel a shift in my brain. It felt as if a switch had flipped and my brain was processing differently. I don’t know how else to describe this sensation, other than to say it was noticeable. It was almost a strain to be at the computer after doing the other creative, hands-on projects. I made a mental note that it’s essential for me to strive for a better balance between computer and offline time. My head and heart seem to crave the non-tech time in the same way I need food for nourishment.

Don’t get me wrong, I am a strong advocate for using technology when it truly helps with what you’re trying to accomplish. I freely confess to how reliant I am on technology to keep me connected, organized and productive. At the same time, I recognize that the time spent using it can become an easy substitute for face-to-face contact, intimate conversations, other types of learning and life experiences. Like everything else, find the right balance that works for you. I’ve heard about people taking “no phone call days” and “unplugged vacations.”  The fact that technology is so readily available and integrated into our lives makes it essential that we take some time away to cultivate our bodies and brains in a different way.