Can you imagine daily life without your tablet? How about without having your laptop computer or smartphone? What about a day with no online game of Words with Friends? Technology has totally changed our everyday life. We now get our news online, interact with friends through social media sites, and depend on GPS-equipped smart phones to find that new Chinese restaurant and get back to our homes. But does there come a time to shut down all of this tech? A recent story by the New York Times suggests that turning off the phones, tablets and laptops — at least once in a while — might make us more productive people.
Even the techies shut down
The Times story concentrated on some highly unlikely supporters of the take-a-tech-break theory: techies themselves. The Times, in fact, highlighted the case of an author and former Twitter employee. This techie was writing a book. But the constant chirping of his iPhone kept him from concentrating. Once this techie ditched the phone, he found that the words flowed. His advice? Ditching the tech can dramatically boost productivity.
Growing support
The Times story found that this former Twitter worker was far from alone. The story’s author relates a game that he plays with his technology-minded friends. When they gather for dinner, they each put their phones in the center of the table. The first person who touches his or her phone before the meal concludes has to pick up the check.
What about you?
So, what about you? Is it time for you to set aside your electronic devices? Possibly. Are you continually distracted by the sound of incoming text messages? Can you hold a conversation without trying to get to the next level in Angry Birds? Do you talk with your friends solely through Tweets? If so, it may be time to put away the tech for a while. You may be amazed at how interesting the world can be without it.
Take IT Away 