Using technology to our advantage

Using technology to our advantage is crucial in every profession, even in our personal lives. Even though we live in a tech-obsessed world, and it can be a problem, in fact, when it is appropriately used it can make a difference in our lives, but if it’s not can turn into a nuisance. We just have to see the pros and cons and make the best of it.

Environmental “no-no”

Everyone wants to have the latest gadget on the market. But do we really need it? Well, it depends on the use we give it. In some cases, it is strictly necessary, whist in others is a total waste of money. I would say a graphic designer needs a very good computer, with a great graphics card and other accessories, because it’s a working tool. People that need to be contactable, may want to have a good mobile phone, so they can have all their email accounts and other tools. However, someone who just uses a mobile phone for calls and other basic features won’t need the latest model. Nor we need to change TV set every year. Even when you really need a good gadget, most times you won’t need to upgrade every 6 months or every year.

We need to be mindful of the environment and a lot of these gadgets end up in landfill, which is a serious environmental problem. But should we keep our devices for ages and never buy news ones? Well, first of all, they don’t really last forever these days, so that will never be possible.  But we can certainly consider if they really need replacing before our next trip to the shops.

Positive side

But let’s face it, we need technology. It is a very powerful and useful tool we have at our disposal. It can help us at work, at home, everywhere. As a translator, I could not live without my laptop. It allows me to receive work from my clients in just a few seconds, it allows me to attend webinars and talk to people on the other side of the world, communicate with my clients in real-time. Without technology, I would still be able to do my job, but it would be a lot harder and less efficient.

I think the secret is using technology to our advantage. Use it for all good it can bring us, but be aware of all the bad it can cause as well, so we can make balanced choices and live a better life.