To Buy Or Not To Buy?
That Is The Question
Technology is a double-edged sword when it comes to making life simpler and saving time. While it may do both of these things, there is a dark side. We feel compelled to FILL that newly saved time with even more things to do, thus complicating our lives rather than simplifying them.
I am an admitted techno-geek - yes, I have the laptop, Palm Pilot, caller ID, cell phone, etc. - but before I purchase any type of new technology, I always ask myself, "Do I NEED this item?" or "Do I WANT this item?" If I purchased every piece of technology that I WANTED, I'd need a new building in
which to store it!
You have to be careful as you bring anything into your life, but technology requires even more caution. There are several reasons for this:
- Technology is costly.
- Any item that you buy usually becomes obsolete the moment it crosses the threshold of your home or office.
- You may not be getting everything you need.
- You may be getting way more than you'll ever need!
In order to keep balance in your life, both personally and professionally, you need to do your homework on the technology that you are considering. As a professional organizer, I know that all systems are not meant for everyone. Don't just think of the day that you buy it...think of it 1, 2, or even 3
years down the road. Is it worth the investment? Can you see your business growing into it?
On the other end of the spectrum, don't waste an exorbitant amount of time debating on whether or not a product is going to be just "perfect" for your situation. Striving for perfection can be exhausting, squander time, and drive those around you crazy! We just bought a new stereo and I researched
so much, that by the time I made the purchase, I was so mired in that I couldn't remember the features that we wanted in the first place (and my husband was a tad more than frustrated!).
As professional speakers, we need to take our daily routine into consideration because there is no one-size-fits-all approach to technology, so you have to examine your own NEEDS when a colleague or friend recommends a new "toy" to you.
Look at the long-term effects of your purchase...and if it will save you some time, try to refrain from filling that time with another task! Look at it as newly found time. To buy or not to buy? That is the question!
Here's to simplifying your life! (c) 2006, Kreamer Connect, Inc. Permission granted to reprint this article so long as the text and by-line are not changed and reprinted intact with all links made live.
Patty Kreamer, owner of Kreamer Connect, Inc., is a professional organizer, speaker, and author of ...But I Might Need It Someday! and The Power of Simplicity, now available at http://www.ByeByeClutter.com. If your business or organization is looking for a
fun, dynamic, and effective speaker, you can email Patty at patty@ByeByeClutter.com or call her at 412-344-3252.
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