Technology entertains us and allows us to do things we couldn't before or couldn't do so easily. But there is a price. Every new device and program takes time to acquire, learn to use and manage.
Technology is one of the biggest distractions and time consumers today. We are faced with so many different types of technology: television, radio, internet, smartphones, computers, video games, etc. Each of these takes time to acquire, learn to use and maintain.
Just consider this one factor: how much time you spend each day, week, month managing your technology. This includes finding and purchasing new technology and software, setting up software, learning to use new technology, downloading updates, troubleshooting, servicing, and exploring the many options and capabilities of the devices and software that you have. If you followed that for just a month, you might be in for a surprise.
Follow these three best practices to manage your technology and prevent it from taking up too much of your time:
1. Weigh the benefits against the costs of technology: The next time you're tempted to buy that new device or download that new program, consider this waste of time. You can often get by just fine with older technology and software. As long as it works well and newer versions don't contain anything that will help you, be careful when upgrading to newer versions. It will cost you both time and money.
2. Use the 24-hour rule: the next time you're tempted to download a new app, piece of software, or buy a new device, stop. Take at least 24 hours to think about this decision. Before purchasing, think seriously about the time cost of acquiring, learning to use, and maintaining this new technology. This reduces the tendency to buy impulsively and helps you effectively manage your time spent on technology.
3. Eliminate what is not time-bound: Technology becomes obsolete or at least less useful over time. It is easy to accumulate redundant technologies. Be ruthless in device and software management. Eliminate old technology that is redundant or ineffective.
Technology can make our lives easier and more productive. It can entertain us. It can also take precious time to acquire, control, and maintain. We must be aware and careful about the technology we acquire and store in light of the time it will take.
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