8 tips to stop tech stress
Updated: Mar. 20, 2019
If your gadgets are stressing you out, maybe it’s time to unplug’at least for a little while. Learn how to reduce your tech stress with these tips
1. Spot the signs of tech stress
The first step to reducing your technology-related stress is realizing that your gadgets may be causing you grief. Feeling alone even as you communicate with people all day is a signal that technology is dominating your life. Take stock of how much time you spend texting, emailing, surfing and pinging each day.
2. Take baby steps
Try being inaccessible for short spurts to see what happens to your mood. Start by shutting all your technology down for one hour each day. You’ll likely find that you didn’t miss much by being offline for a while.
Give clear instructions
Try an email signature that reads “I answer email at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. If you need a quicker response, please call.”
Stick to a schedule
Handle recreational Web surfing and email at set times. Dipping in and out is classic self-interruption.
Make a task list
If you’re interrupted, you’ll get back to work faster if you have one.
Repeat these four words: “I have a choice.”
People who say, “My boss wants me to be reachable after 8 p.m.” are likely exaggerating the control others have over them.
Set limits
Rein in office email and instant message traffic. Who truly needs 35 daily FYIs on the Henderson case?
Do a reality check
After five minutes of unplanned surfing, ask yourself, “Should I really be doing this now?”
Do a reality check
After five minutes of unplanned surfing, ask yourself, “Should I really be doing this now?”
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