Technology, it’s made our lives better, stronger, and faster; but at what cost? Today it seems people fall into 2 camps - techies and non-techies. Those who buy the latest and greatest new or pre-released gadgets and those who avoid all things tech and are likely still using a simple cell that only allows you to phone a friend. Regardless of where you fall in the lineup, tech is here to stay and the advancements have changed the way we communicate and relate with each other, the way we conduct our day-to-day lives, the way we work and the way we shop.
Remember buying that lipstick you thought looked so awesome in the magazine, only to get home and realize that, unsurprisingly, a shade that looked great on Halle Berry might not bode well for your fair skin and strawberry blond hair. But consumers now have mobile apps that allow you to “try on” shades of lipsticks, foundations and even different styles of makeup, all from the privacy of your home or, more accurately, your phone.
And remember when dating meant asking friends for set ups, blind dates or having to go out to bars, attend church, or even stalk grocery store aisles? Well, if you don’t have an online dating profile, then you are completely behind the times. No longer is it taboo or frowned upon to meet your “match” online. Online dating provides easy access to huge numbers of potential mates with a simple click, but there are some obvious drawbacks. While access has improved, courtship style has changed dramatically. And this is not just with dating, while friendships and relations with family have become easier to maintain, especially when you’re not geographically close, misunderstandings, “unfriending” and hurt feelings are much more common because we simply don’t hear each other’s tone. The sound of one’s voice can mean so much and that’s just missing from most of today’s interactions.
So while tech has made life so much easier is so many ways, it’s best to remember it shouldn’t be a substitute for good old fashioned in-person communication where possible.
In this issue, we share exciting technological advancement that make life easier: like apps you won’t be able to resist for looking your best, finding the best local restaurant, or having face-to-face real time interactions; or programs that allow you to do your job more efficiently and from anywhere from an office, your home or a white sand beach. But we also talk about the negative effects of too much tech, like how it’s affecting our relationships and sense of self. And of course we share our guilty pleasures of what’s hot in summer movies and summer sipping.
We hope you enjoy our July issue of all things technology. At the end of the day, it is up to us as individuals to use technology responsibly, morally and … kindly. Take and enjoy the best of progress and let it bring the best out of you.
Editors Note
Michele