I am 36 and I have two children. They intuitively know how to use computers, tablets, and smartphones. Soon they will surpass my abilities with any and all new technology. My husband works in the technology field, but I feel they will approach his abilities at some point as well – or at least pass him in their ability to adapt to new technology more quickly. It’s quite scary, really. And it comes full circle, meaning I know more than my parents do, and I can (usually) pick up on the newer stuff more quickly than them as well. I guess it’s all to be expected.
Being semi-technology savvy, there are still some things I don’t “get” with current technology and devices:
- Do people actually respond to text messages in a timely fashion? I thought text messaging was supposed to be quick, short, and precise. I often respond to a message within minutes, and then wait hours (if not days) for any sort of reply. I’d much rather email where I can be more wordy and fun (you know, smiley faces and such) than trying to cram my message into a short text. I know, old fashioned much?
- And what’s with e-reading? Hand me a book and a comfy chair – maybe throw in a coffee, or glass of wine – and I’m a very happy camper. I even discovered some cotton gloves that I can put on in the evening after I apply my nice heavy lotion so I can continue reading without getting my book greasy until I can’t keep my eyes open. Try using a digital product with gloves on – doesn’t work so well! I get the convenience of digital reading, but I just can’t get into it. To be fair, I’ve never tried reading on a paperwhite style reader – I hear they’re easier to look at for a longer timespan. But still, back to old fashioned me, with my love of all things books!
Online shopping – especially for clothes or shoes. Unless you’re going to come get my rejects that I can’t possible wear, I don’t want to order from you. I am no normal size for anything – pants, shoes, dresses, coats – petite doesn’t always work (I’m 5’2″), and I don’t like the idea of ordering 4 of the same thing in different sizes, hoping one will fit. I do get online shopping for books, cds, games, and toys, you know, the things you’re already familiar with. But I also like going to the store for that stuff – I guess I just hate clothes shopping all around.
I’m sure there are more things that I don’t “get” about today’s modern world. Like why do smartphones keep getting bigger? If you want a tablet, get a tablet. And then there’s tablets – isn’t that why they made laptops? To have a portable computer? I don’t like “writing” on a touch screen. Keyboards all the way for this gal.
Frankly I’m a little nervous about where the tech is going, and whether or not I’ll be able to keep up! I guess it’s good I made two babies who will have to grow up and teach me about the new technology that’ll be straightforward for them, but ancient Greek to me.
What do you struggle with as far as technology goes? Anything irk you like it does me? Share with me in the comments – I love hearing your opinions!
~Jess
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