In the interest of full disclosure, I should probably admit that I used a headline that might be slightly over the top. But, while most of us probably aren’t using our iPhones, Androids, and other smart phones for purely evil purposes, we probably aren’t using them for as much good as we could be, either.
Don’t worry, I’m not writing to tell you about a superhero app that compels you to fight crime. What I’m actually getting at is the fact that many of us first upgraded to web-ready devices to get more done, which is certainly a fine and achievable goal. What ends up happening, however, is that they end up wasting as much time for us as they save.
Regular readers of my column will know I’m all about efficiency and productivity. So, I recently asked myself: How can we all start using our smart phones for better effect and get more of our money’s worth from our monthly plans?
After racking my brain, searching the Internet, and seeing what some leading experts have to say on the topic, here are my best tips:
Think carefully before you buy or download an app. Apple wasn’t lying when they promised “there is an app for that.” Our smart phones can literally do more now than NASA could just decades ago. That’s not all good news, though, because it can tempt us to download lots of apps – especially games and other useless items – that we don’t need, or necessarily even want.
Put yourself on two important budgets. That phenomenon of “downloading just because it’s there” leads us to an important point. You need to put yourself on two different budgets: one for time, and another for money. How much are you spending on your smart phone, in terms of dollars and the precious minutes of your life? Find the right level for both, and then stick to your “budget” every day.
Recognize the signs that you have a smart phone problem. Although very few people actually have an “addiction” to smart phones the way they do to alcohol or drugs, relying too much on mobile technology can hurt the relationships you have with other people. If others are always annoyed with you because of your phone usage, or your tendency to check e-mail on your cell phone is putting your job in jeopardy, then it’s time to get serious about cutting back.
Think twice about that upgrade. Although it’s always great to have the latest device, the hard truth is that most new “upgrades” have a lot more to do with marketing than they do actual mobile communication capabilities. There may be better things to spend your time and money on than the latest phone, so be sure to keep your priorities in balance.
Keeping these little pieces of advice in mind can help you make the most of your smart phone, and stop you from wasting time and money month after month. Of course, if you have your own tips to share, I’d love to hear them. E-mail me today and let me know what you think!