Technology for Beginners – Technology has come such a long way in the past 40 years – now, it is not only easier to use than it was back then, but now it is used in ways that can be life-changing. It not only gives us all more free time, but it makes free time more fun. It can help to keep us healthy and can lend a hand to those who aren’t so healthy and need some help with simple, day-to-day tasks. Not everyone is comfortable with using technology, though. What if you are a total technology beginner, think there is no way you can learn how to use it, and are overwhelmed by the very idea of all there is to know? Where do you start?
Start With the Basics
It may seem daunting, but you have to start somewhere, so why not start with the basics? No matter what you want technology to do for you, it is a good idea to have a general idea of what kind of technology is out there and what people are using it for. Keep in mind that no matter what you want to use technology for, chances are there is a program out there to help you do it. A good place to start is to check on the internet or at your local community college for a computer 101 class. You might even try to find a free course at your local library. Such a course should cover the basics of how computers work, what you can do with them (you may be surprised), and sites you can visit to test out your new knowledge. You might even get some insight into coding, which is how computer programs are developed. Try not to get overwhelmed, and take it step by step. You may have no idea now what it means to export after effects to mp4, but within no time you’ll be explaining the concept to other people.
Narrow Down the Focus
What got you interested in technology in the first place? Do you want to use it for creative purposes, such as graphic design? Have you been thinking that it might be fun to blog about your travels or your gardening projects? Are you tired of your grandkids having to fix your phone for you? You can rest assured there is a specific class, book, or website that addresses exactly what you need; but don’t just read the book and tinker for a few minutes – jump in and play with the new technology. Don’t be afraid that you’ll break it!
Don’t Just Depend on “Experts”
Maybe you aren’t interested in technology as a hobby or to help with day-to-day tasks, but because you need it for your business. Granted, you can always hire an IT person to handle the heavy lifting involved in setting up your new computer system – but if you understand a bit about technology and what it can do, it can help you decide what kinds of technology your business needs to really thrive. Understanding what is available out there is not just good for your business and productivity, it can also be beneficial for your employees. True, there is a lot to learn, with seemingly more out there every day. However, there are also many ways to learn it. Ask questions of your IT staff, keep up with tech companies on social media and on their websites, and check out the latest blogs on the tech topics that interest you. Within no time, you’ll be understanding technology better and you won’t be a beginner anymore!
Technology is just like everything else – it can be scary when you haven’t used it very much. However, nowadays there are so many ways to learn about technology, how to use it, and what it has to offer that there is no reason to be scared anymore. Don’t be afraid to jump right in and find out how technology can benefit you.
