How to Make Technology Works for You and Not Against You

Technology is like a double-edged sword. It can work for you or against you. Use it the right way and technology can help you become more productive. But use it the wrong way, and technology can take you away from what matter most. That’s why it’s important that you know how to make technology works for you.

How can you do that? Here are some tips.

1. Know the Options

To make the most of technology, first you need to know what the options are. If you don’t know what is available, how can you make the most of them?

You don’t need to know everything (in fact, trying to do that will take time away from doing your real work), but you need to know the trends. You need to know when a new wave is coming.

For this, follow some technology publications and read them selectively.

2. Know Your Needs

Equally important to knowing your options is knowing your needs. Why? Because it will help you find the right tools for you. It will help you assess potential tools.

What is it that you want to achieve? And what kind of tools will help you get there?

3. Find the Right Tools

Next, you need to experiment with potential tools. Your goal is to find the tools that fit your particular needs.

Figure out the strengths of each tool and use it accordingly. For example, I use Evernote to archive interesting articles but I use OneNote to store my ideas.

4. Stick to What Works

After finding a set of tools that works for you, stick with it. There is no point in always using the latest tools. Why? Because that will only hinder you from getting things done!

The fact is, getting things done requires you to be familiar with your tools. That wouldn’t happen if you keep switching to new tools. So only consider switching to a new tool if it offers a significant benefit.

5. Set Limits

Remember that technology can work against you. This is especially true with social media. If you consume too much of them, you won’t get things done. Constant interruptions will also drain your productivity.

So set limits. Turn off notifications on your phone and limit your social media intake to just a few times a day.

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Applying these tips will help you make technology works for you and not against you. You will then be on your way to reaching your full potential.