The New Technology of the Past Decade - How Did I Survive Without It?

The decade that just past saw a great many changes in technology that improved our lives immensely. I often wondered how my parents made it through the early part of their lives without television but now look back and feel the same about a life without cell phones, computers and GPS systems. I have just about every electronic gadget out there. Some of them are frivolous but there are a few that I could not live without and wonder how I did.

Most likely the biggest technological change over the last decade has been the expansion of the Internet. It has increased my ability to share information, perform research, and submit articles and grants electronically instead of going through the traditional mail. Not only has this proven to be more efficient, it is environmentally friendly as well as I no longer have to print out pages and pages of material. The Internet has also saved me time and money by allowing me to do perform mundane tasks with ease - especially banking, bill paying and shopping. Use of the Internet has also improved and expanded the ways in which I communicate. Email has been a lifesaver for me! I have found it to be easy because I can return emails anytime time of the day or night and no longer have to worry about finding the time for lengthy conversations. The arrival of social networking sites such as Facebook, has allowed me to reconnect with my high school and hometown friends, some of whom I have not been in touch with for years!

Along with improved communication abilities comes a heightened sense of security. I no longer go anywhere without my cell phone and GPS. I try to be responsible and not talk on the phone while I'm driving but must have it in case of emergencies. If I leave the house without my phone I will turn around to get it. While I've always been good with directions having the GPS makes it easier to get where I need to go. I no longer have to print out directions and try to read them while driving. If I make a wrong turn or get lost, I know I can easily get back on track. This past summer I took a wrong turn and ended up in a very bad section of Detroit but got through it thanks to the GPS.

With all the advances of the past decade I find it hard to believe that there can be any more but I'm just there will be and that the new products will be even more amazing. Now if someone would invent something that would clean my house, cook and do the grocery shopping for me I would set!