The hidden cost of wearable technology

By Brian Maynor

 

If there was ever a doubt that wearable technology is here to stay, then let’s put it to rest right now.

This year not only is the trend seeing upgrades and advancements we are also starting to see some backlash. For years we’ve been hearing about the perils of the new norm of constant connection with cell phones, tablets, email, social media and the like, but wearable tech is pushing that even further. When you need a break or have a lull in your day, no longer do you have to be in front of your computer or on your phone to surf the web, send messages, or check email. Now you can do it from a watch.

While it is certainly cool and convenient, wearable technology, like all technology, has its costs. Here are a few cons to go with all those pros of lifestyle-integrated technology:

1.    Less creativity. It’s easy to think of surfing your favorite gossip site or Pinterest board as relaxing and zoning out, but the truth it is, it’s not. You may be distracting yourself from other tasks at hand, but your mind is still engaged. Creativity comes from letting your mind wander with no direction or purpose.

2.    Diminished productivity. In order to work at optimal levels everything needs some ‘time off’ and that includes our brains. When we daydream our brains are not taking in and processing new information. It is simply allowed to relax and flow as it needs to and take a much needed break from the constant stream of information we deal with every day.

3.    Lack of long-term thinking. Constantly dealing with information in front of you ties you to the present, which makes it harder to think about and plan for long-term goals, projects or opportunities. We are all faced with more news, updates, alerts and messages than we can easily handle and most of them are short-term oriented.

4.    Fewer innovations. When we let our minds drift it may feel unproductive, but aside from recharging our focus and mental capacities we are also unconsciously coming up with new ideas and innovations. Instead of staring at a computer screen racking your brain for a solution to the latest crisis close your eyes or stare out the window and just let your mind wander. After a few minutes you just might be surprised that the solution just comes to you.

Contrary to the popular practice of getting trapped in the Internet time suck, this is not the same as letting your brain take a break. It’s much more productive to walk to the window and just stare out at the cars and people below or closing your eyes and listening to music or the sounds around you. The goal of taking a break is to stop the bombardment of information and the only way to do that is to completely unplug.

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

I am always curious to hear from you and what you see in the workplace. Send your questions, comments and pet peeves to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.

 

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