Technology overload can also manifest quietly, leading to anxiety at just the thought of launching a software application or being paralysed by trying to decide which piece of software to choose for a particular job. While you might not be in a position to make changes within your own organisation regarding the number and type of software used, you can consider your own tech detox to better manage the effect of digital overload.
Smartphones are pretty much essential in life these days, so going cold turkey is impractical. Instead:
- Consider reducing the number of notifications you receive during work time. You will generally find the controls for this under ‘Settings’.
- If you can, on your workstation, clear the desktop of non-essential items. Leave shortcuts to folders that you access most often, and your favourite Office products but remove everything else.
- Find alternatives to occupy yourself if you are waiting for a meeting or appointment. Instead of scrolling through your phone to avoid boredom, reach for a book or a magazine, or doodle with a pencil.
These are really small changes to make but can be considered part of a ‘digital diet’ to reduce the sensation of tech overload, particularly during stressful situations that might require hours of pounding the keyboard to get the job done on time.
