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Learning new technology can be fun, exciting and completely scary. During breaks you might take a class to improve your technology skills and find a plethora of tools you want to add to your Digital Toolbox. So, go ahead and play around with all those fun things. That's a great way to learn. But, once you're back in the classroom or boardroom, who has time to really stay ahead of the learning curve?
My strategy is to find out what makes my job easier. It's really as simple as that. The following advice came from someone far my junior - "If the tech tool doesn't make your life easier, no matter how cool it is, don't use it." Sage advice.
Sometimes the learning curve is steep on a new app. It's okay if it doesn't make your job easier right away. But, if you continue to learn and still haven't saved yourself any time, maybe this isn't the tool for you. The bigger the time investment, however, the more you want to make it fit your work style. Don't be fooled into thinking that just because you've invested a lot of time in the app means you are forced to live with it.
Tech tools are like a pair of shoes. They might look stylish, are "in" or make you appeal to a younger crowd. But, in the end if they don't fit, you end up being miserable. The harder you try to cram your foot into a shoe that isn't the right fit, the more frustrating and painful life becomes.
Ask questions of people that use technology well. Sometimes they will have a suggestion for you that you didn't even know existed. Get really good at boolean searches and see what others have to say. A little time invested in a good search can save you lots of time with the wrong app. Then, continue to build your Digital Toolbox with the best fit for you.