Decrease Your Technology Dependence

How often do you hear someone ask. "what did we do before cellphones?' One of the many  answer is: we relied on our memories. Studies have shown that using our memory improves reasoning and creativity. Yet, because of our increased reliance on technology, few of us can even recall phone numbers or appointments. Try remembering and entering numbers by hand or picturing your weekly calendar in your mind. This will not only help you when the inevitable happens and your BlackBerry or iPhone goes down.

I personally always go to old-school with stack of 3 x 5 index cards. I carry them with me, and when I hear a good idea, I write them down. The physicality of cards forces me to reflect on them at the end of the day, and act of writing down the ideas help me to remember them and process them. Having blank cards in pockets is also an useful reminder that I am looking for new ideas and, most importantly, ready to listen.