I know it’s shocking, but imagine this: 

People lived for thousands of years WITHOUT cell phones, iPads, X/Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, Netflix, etc. and actually survived. Many of the survivors even managed to live happy, fulfilling lives! :) 

If you use one or more technologies on a daily basis, you know their benefits and you’ve probably felt their costs as well, especially how distracting they can be.

I don’t suggest you throw them all away. I’m actually thankful for the technology that’s allowing you to read this message right now! But...

Ask yourself, "Do I own my device, or does it own me?"

How many times a day do you check for messages, texts, emails, responses, etc.? Do you feel angry, lost or anxious if your service is down temporarily? Consider, are you being the master of technology or its slave?

I invite you to be the master of technology. Here are a few suggestions how:

1. Seek out face-to-face connections too. If you’re waiting for a meeting to start, how about putting down your smart phone and starting a friendly conversation with your colleague who is also waiting? This is how relationships are built. Or if your children are in a performance at school, consider watching and absorbing the proud moment directly too, and not just through the lens of your camera.

2. Check text, e-mail and social media once or a limited number of times a day. Consider the time and energy you spend to take...