Technology is evolving at warp speed. Can you feel it? I can. It seems like a new technology is invented every second.
Technology can be an anxiety producing phenomenon if you don’t have a clear understanding how and why it’s important to you.
Some of us are unnecessarily afraid of technology. Many of us mistakenly get drunk on it. I’ve been on both sides of the spectrum.
There was a time I didn’t want to be an early adopter. Technology confused me and I was comfortable with my old system or method. There have been other times, more recently, that I’ve used technology just because…with no real intent or purpose. I got lost in the maze of playing with the latest, greatest gadget and completely destroyed any sense of productivity.
For many of us, technology just simply hasn’t been a part of our education system. Well, as 21st century business owners, we can no longer use that as an excuse. We not only must embrace technology, we need to learn to apply it in ways that make our lives more valuable and productive, not wasteful.
Productivity means getting something done faster, easier, or cheaper. You’re taking complexity — whether it’s time, effort, or cost — and reducing it. The good news is technology is being built for us to do just this. Things happen faster, they’re costing less, and they’re getting easier to use.
The question becomes, are you positioning yourself to take advantage of these technologies or are they sabotaging your productivity?
Here are three quick questions to decide if a technology is right for you:
- Does this technology enhance something I’m already good at? All technology should be used as an extension of your abilities — the things you do best, love doing most, and get the best results from. Many seek out technology to solve their shortcomings. Instead, leverage others to help with your shortcomings. Leverage technology to enhance your strong suits. Find and use the technology that helps you perform better. The ones that make you stand out. The ones that empower your gifts and talents.
- What is my specific purpose with this technology? You can use a knife to help or harm. Technology is no different. Remember, technology is a means to an end. The end is whatever your purpose would be even if there weren’t a technology around. You must be totally clear about your purpose first, then look for a technology to make it easier, faster, or cheaper.
- What am I willing to give up? If you are going to spend time on something, you must be willing to give something else up in exchange for it. When you decide to adopt a new technology put another one on hold until you determine which is better for you.
Ultimately, each technology should be helping you get something done faster, easier, or cheaper. If it’s not, it’s not worth it.
What questions do you ask yourself to know if a technology is right for you?
About the Author: Greg Hartle is co-founder of New Methods. And also founder, co-founder, investor, and/or strategic advisor with over a dozen businesses. Greg also speaks and consults professionally with businesses, non-profits, and other groups on 21st century capitalism, leadership, and integral life strategies. Connect with him on Twitter and Google+
