For many, the term “Technology” evokes a sense of ominous fear, particularly as advancements seem to occur at warp speed. This fear is especially relevant for individuals at mid-career who may be considering a change. The fear of being replaced by technology, particularly by Artificial Intelligence (AI), is a valid concern. However, it’s essential to consider historical context and parallels in our nation’s history.

Reflecting on our past, we can draw inspiration from the transition from horse-drawn transportation to automobiles. Rotary and dial-up phones to cell phones. In fact, I used to watch my own grandmother use her wringer washing machine. She would turn the pair of rollers by hand to squeeze the excess water from the clothes after washing. For her, it was a wonderful advancement from hours spent handwashing and scrubbing clothes. There are many other examples we can approach.

Join us as we delve deeper into the parallels between historical technological advancements and the challenges we face today. Through insightful details and real-life examples, we’ll uncover strategies for overcoming the fear of technology and embracing opportunities for personal and professional Growth in today’s tech-driven world. I’ve also included in the article links to an additional podcast interview with Mark Herschberg who is not only tech-savvy with a number of patents and inventions but has created an app that you’ll want to check out. I have also included a few links to some of my favorite tech tools at the end of the article.

Tip Four: Start Small and Seek Guidance

Starting small is a mindset that we all need to adopt because it includes “starting.” There are very small steps that can be taken, especially within a larger goal. I make it a habit to work hard at creating systems with very small steps. When they are created, it makes it easier for me to hire out tasks as needed. I recently did this with some video editing work for my podcasts. I have not felt comfortable offloading this task because I’m fast at editing and it didn’t seem worth spending the time or resources to train someone else. Plus, many editors charge more than I think they need to charge if given a good system.

As soon as I created my system and offloaded one video with a team I was already very familiar and working with, I became comfortable with offloading more and more. My system includes me doing some of the back-end work to provide the right footage, mastered audio files and information, but by doing this, I knew the product put out by my video team will be consistent and on brand with my other materials because of what I set up.

Because I’ve dealt so much with tech issues in the past, I have not been afraid to approach technology. But for those who are not as adventuresome, I suggest seeking guidance. However, spend time doing the research because there are many so called “coaches” and “experts” who charge a lot of Money and depend on their influential messages to sell. Look carefully at what is truly offered and get as much information as possible. Referrals are also a good source of information, but still do diligence with research and reviews. There’s a lot of free information given for different tools that are available completely free for further educating ourselves.

Tip Five: Stay Updated and Adapt Accordingly

Technology is constantly evolving, so it’s essential to stay informed about the latest advancements and trends. This can feel overwhelming but it’s not. I’ve recently incorporated the app by Mark Herschberg called “Brain Bump.” It’s free for authors and creators and gives me as an author and podcaster an additional marketing tool as well as resource for finding new material. Readers and listeners also get a free account which exposes more people to our content. I also follow tech blogs, subscribe to newsletters, magazines and listen to podcasts to stay updated on industry developments. I’ve included some of my favorites in the links included with this article.

We have to embrace a mindset of lifelong learning and be open to adapting to new technologies as they emerge. We don’t need to adopt every new emerging technology but the willingness to experiment and waste some time will pay off at some point. It may actually become fun in some cases! Recognize that making mistakes is a natural part of the learning process and an opportunity to improve.

Application: Stay Curious and Live Life Fully

Remember that staying curious and adaptable will help us stay ahead in today’s fast-paced digital world. I got such a thrill to read the texts from my eighty-eight year old father and I’ve kept some of them after he was gone. He never did spell check and some messages were quite hilarious! But he was willing to embrace the technology and that attitude revealed so much of his life philosophy which was, “I’m not afraid of dying, but I really like living!”

We are living in a world with so much opportunity. Embrace it and learn as much as possible to enjoy every day you are granted to live on this earth.