Avoid Becoming a Technology Addict While Still Enjoying All it Has to Offer
Being on the cutting edge of telecommunications technology can be thrilling. It means knowing what's out there, knowing what's best, understanding what's coming next, what's worth investing in and what's not. From high definition televisions to sleek notebook computers to wireless internet and beyond, the world of technology is an exciting one. As it should be.
Getting into technology is great. Staying on the cutting edge of up and coming elements like 4G and WiMax when it comes to the internet and knowing what's ahead in the world of television is not a bad thing. Nevertheless, prudence is key. Being a technology whiz is great, but not when it goes to far. It's easy to become obsessed with being up-to-date, spending thousands of dollars you might not have on tech toys you might use. How can you avoid crossing the line when it comes to technology? Ask yourself a few questions:
Do I want this?
The answer to this question may seem obvious, but that doesn't necessarily mean it is. Before buying a laptop or jumping at a new 4G-equipped cell phone, ask yourself why it is that you really want the thing you're going after. You may really be seeking something else ' say, feeling better after a bad week. Do you want the thing you're about to buy for the sake of the thing itself, or do you want it in order to resolve another issue?
Do I need this?
Here, the answer may a little bit more complicated. Need is tough to define ' especially when it comes to things that we don't really need (which is, generally, the case with all technologies). If it's not food, water or shelter, it's not a legitimate basic necessity. Nevertheless, the question is legitimate. Ask yourself whether the thing you're buying will legitimately improve your life. Is there a legitimate difference between this mp3 player and your old one? Will the optional programs you can add to your laptop having to do with art and design really be useful to you? Is constant connectedness really necessary enough for your line of work that an iPhone or a BlackBerry is a good investment? If the answer to these questions is yes, buy, buy, buy. If you have a doubt, however, think twice. There's no need to completely limit yourself when it comes to technological investments. A little prudence, however, goes a long way.
Can I afford this?
This is where the slope can get dangerously slippery. Those who overdo it with technology may have a tendency to lose control when it comes to spending. Tech toys can be very expensive and over-spending can leave you with big debts. Installment plans may be available as well as the good old option of slowly paying back credit card companies, but such financial finagling is not always optimal. Plus, when you're thinking in hundreds and thousands of dollars, it's easy to get a skewed perception of reality when it comes to money. The best bet is to be frugal ' a discount of $100 on a $1000 item is still $900.
