Wearable technology and life balance

In our rapidly changing technology-based world, wearable devices have become an integral part of everyday life. Whether it's fitness trackers, smart watches or the current novelty – rings. These gadgets promise to increase well-being and streamline various aspects of our lives. However, in the pursuit of a healthier and more connected lifestyle, it is crucial to realize that smart wearables can also be a source of stress if not used judiciously. Among other things, coaching can help you find a balance between the benefits of technology and mental and emotional well-being.

I'm a fan of minimalism, and this is doubly true in technology. But when smart rings appeared on the market, I was tempted by their functionality and beautiful design. I've owned this "add-on" for about a month, and during that time I've caught myself letting technology take over me several times. This made me stop and think. How to balance the positive aspects of technology, allow yourself to be adequately challenged and at the same time stay connected to your real needs?

How wearable technology can derail us

Pressure to perform

Designed to motivate and track physical activity, fitness trackers can inadvertently create a sense of competitiveness and perfectionism. Users may feel pressured to meet daily goals, and competitiveness may also manifest itself in comparing oneself to others.

In this way, we can easily slip into an obsession with checking every step, as well as devaluing otherwise beneficial activities.

A pleasant walk in the fresh air becomes an obligation during which we check our performance. We forget the beneficial effects of walking itself, we walk more, but we try to reach the set goal. And when we don't achieve it, we can experience feelings of dissatisfaction, loss and self-doubt. Activities that used to please us become a source of negative feelings.

Sleepless nights

Similar to the performance features, the sleep tracking feature can work to improve sleep quality. But constant monitoring can paradoxically lead to its disruption. With the intention of achieving a perfect score, we create internal tension and anxiety that disrupts or completely prevents our rest. We go to bed with a feeling of "obligation" to sleep well so that our score is optimal. The more we think about it, the worse it gets. The time to fall asleep can be excessively extended and we wake up in the morning more tired than when we went to bed. We thus end up in a vicious circle, where not only are we tired from lack of sleep, but another setback is added to it in the form of "red" numbers in the statistics.

Distorted results

Most people use smart technology to monitor their health. However, they are not immune to errors or malfunctions. Misreading data or connectivity issues can lead to frustration, anxiety and concern for your health. While measured results can provide valuable information on various health and fitness metrics, they cannot be as accurate as medical devices.

We then think about whether the device or we are right - is it just our feeling of tiredness, are we lazy or is the smart accessory wrong?

Inconsistencies in results may also appear to be inconsistent with our actual current status. It happens that the sleep score is measured by the device as ideal, but we don't really feel that way. The same applies in the case of setting daily goals, when the device prepares a small challenge for us in the form of increasing physical activity, but we do not feel well or are in pain that day. We then think about whether the device or we are right - is it just our feeling of tiredness, are we lazy or is the smart accessory wrong? In combination with competitiveness and fear of "failure", we create unwanted tension in ourselves.

How not to be controlled by technology

#1: Set clear goals

Define specific and realistic goals for which you want to use the device. These will help you use it more effectively.

#2: Choose your notifications carefully

Customize your device's notification settings so you only receive essential notifications. Limiting notifications can reduce constant interruptions and prevent information overload.

#3: Consider a technology detox

Set a specific time of day to disconnect. This may include meal times, family gatherings, or rest periods. Or plan regular detox days or entire weekends.

Technology-free intervals allow you to focus on other aspects of life.

#4: Practice conscious use of technology

Be mindful of how and when you use your wearable. Avoid constant checking out of habit and instead use it intentionally, consciously . Focus on overall trends and patterns and use the information to make positive lifestyle adjustments.

#5: Be mindful and kind to yourself

Realize that all devices are just a tool. Always make decisions based on your true needs and feelings and don't let devices rule your life. Don't panic if you don't reach your goals. Instead, stop, take a few deep breaths, realize who you are and what is important to you, and finally thank yourself with kindness for your performance, whatever it may be.

By incorporating these practices, we can stress-free use our smart accessories as a valuable tool to improve our well-being without overwhelming us with constant information and notifications.

When using technological devices, it is a good idea to ask yourself the following questions:

• What are my priorities and goals in this area?

• How does my body tell me it is not/feeling good?

• How else can I take care of my mental and physical condition?

A consultation with a coach can also help you find balance. He will guide you on the way to finding answers and support you in making the most of the benefits of smart accessories.

And how are you? Do you manage to balance all the advantages and pitfalls of technological conveniences?

Your Jana

Life coach, Brno