Just because technology makes our lives easier it doesn’t mean that it makes our lives less stressful. In fact, it can be quite the opposite.

We are digitally connected to work and each other like we have never been before.

Technology has created the expectation that we should be responded to immediately and tasks should be completed without delay, regardless of their importance. This is not only stressful…it is unrealistic.

For good or bad, technology is not going anywhere - so we are going to have to effectively manage what I like to call “tech stress”.

Here are a few simple habits to let you be in control of technology instead of it controlling you:

1. Never check email first thing in the morning or last thing at night – once you check email your agenda starts to become someone else’s agenda. Complete the items that are important to you first, then you can see what other people need from you.
2. Never check email constantly – set specific times during the day when you will be checking email for the reasons stated above.
3. Never carry a cell phone 24/7 – take a least 1 day per week away from digital leashes, whether that is your cell phone, IPAD, computer, or all of the above.
4. Turn off audible notifications – these cannot be ignored regardless of how hard you try. Eventually you will give in and you will have wasted a lot of brain power trying not to.
5. Do not expect technology, whether it is work-related or social media, to fill the void that non-work and non-tech relationships and activities should. Happiness studies all report that connection with others in person is one of the major factors that determines overall happiness.

Want more tips on how to manage different types of stress in your life? Last chance to sign up for Dr. Durkin's Stress Busters seminar this Thursday (Sept. 29th). It will be held at Quinte Mind Body with Dana Goodfellow, RMT & Meditation facilitator at 6:30pm. Cost is $60. Please call or email the office to sign up.

 

Now I would love to hear from you! What is one tip you have to reduce “tech stress” in your life? Leave a comment below and I’ll be back next week with another edition of Doctor as Teacher Tuesday!