Technology Dependence Isn’t Scary Just Misunderstood

I’m not sure how I survived as a contributing member of normal society three months ago.

With the innovations of my Google and Outlook Calendars, automated To-Do Lists and shared staff schedules in my life, I can only function properly when the little green light on my Dell screen is glowing brightly.

In college I relied on my planner to stay on top of class assignments and my work schedule. An old school practice now, but that little book kept me on time and in-tune.

Now as a young professional it’s like I’m on Day Runner 2.0. The technological advents I mentioned earlier pump life into me like a IV drip. It’s sad how lost I get if I can’t check my Gmail for  couple of hours or if I don’t schedule a to-do in my Outlook Calendar, but I know I’ll forget to update a report or DVR an episode of Cash Cab if I don’t “write” it down.

Typically this dependence would bother me. I usually find myself in the camp of “whatever happens, happens” but that attitude is ignorant when applied to maintaining a work/life balance. People make decisions and establish priorities. Your day won’t just materialize on its own.

Relying on technology isn’t a bad thing, despite the research against its role in multi-tasking and time management. Spontaneity is awesome — if you schedule it right.

It’s comforting for me to know that with the help of these new-fangled “Day Runners” I can focus on other projects and not have the stress and worry of remembering everything meeting and deadline. Besides, my boss probably wouldn’t be too happy if i rolled into work whenever I work up and I’m pretty sure my clients wouldn’t appreciate me sending them information when I feel like it.

Despite Gen Y’s love (or obsession) with technology, it keeps us on track. Just don’t let hours of Facebook stalking creep into your to-do list, because at that point I’m pretty sure you’re too far in the deep end to warrant saving.

-Marilyn