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Unplugged: How moderating tech use can improve productivity, effectiveness

Focus is the base requirement for critical thinking and relationship development. Distractions prevent focus.

By Tony Caldwell | November 15, 2023 at 02:43 AM
The use of multiple screens in our businesses is commonplace based on the practice of having email applications open all the time while working on the other screen reviewing data, preparing proposals, creating applications and other tasks. But the frequent email notifications interrupt us, distract us and lengthen our workdays as a result. Credit: Andy Dean/Adobe Stock The use of multiple screens in our businesses is commonplace based on the practice of having email applications open all the time while working on the other screen reviewing data, preparing proposals, creating applications and other tasks. But the frequent email notifications interrupt us, distract us and lengthen our workdays as a result. Credit: Andy Dean/Adobe Stock

About twenty years ago, the newly elected chairman of our state’s Association of Independent Agents began requiring that everyone turn off their cell phones during board meetings. This but in the era of addictive BlackBerrys and before the advent of pocket-sized supercomputers. The chairman, though he may have been a bit of a Luddite, felt very strongly that no one could give their full attention to two things at once and he wanted meetings to be as productive — and short — as possible.

Since that time, I’ve noticed technology has served to simplify some business and personal aspects of our lives, but at the same time, technology has been determinantal to our productivity and effectiveness. In the insurance business, essentially a people business, its impact has been noticeable. While other technologies also present this double-edged sword, the pocket supercomputer has had the most profound impact, damaging our business and personal relationships.

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