I recently got a data plan on my phone. I know, it’s about time. There is no doubt that having a smart phone is convenient. I don’t even have to set my alarm anymore – my wake up call is at about 7 a.m. or earlier when I receive my first e-mail from my boss or another co-worker.
But since changing my plan, I don’t think I’ve let my phone out of my sight. I am beckoned by that vibrating noise. With every buzz or ring, I jump to my phone like an on-call doctor.
Needless to say, it’s had me thinking…
About a time where the only phone number you had was your landline, and neither call waiting, nor texting existed. A time where there was no such thing as email, IM or social networking.
Technology has changed our lives immensely. When my car broke down at 11 p.m. on the side of the highway, my cell phone was my savior. I never get lost in the city anymore thanks to Google Maps, and “Skyping” with my best friend in Florida is almost as good as seeing her face to face.
Still, I went away this weekend and it was refreshing to be ‘offline.’ Whether this means writing with good ol’ fashioned pen and paper, reading a book instead of reading a screen, or simply going for a walk without your cell phone, I believe it’s important to take some time away from technology from time to time in order to recharge.
Here at bv02, we’ve started with a “no cell phone at the table” policy – particularly when we’re in meetings, eating lunch together on the back deck, or out for drinks coffee whilst brainstorming.
Now if you’ll excuse me, I hear my phone buzzing.
