Always "ON" but never "Present": how Technology Impacts Productivity and Team Culture
- tstewart637
- Jan 22
- 1 min read
Working in today's digital-first world, technology keeps us connected 24/7—but at what cost? Many of us feel the pressure to always be “on,” constantly checking emails, replying to messages, or juggling endless notifications. While these tools help us stay productive, they can also distract us from being fully present at work.
The irony? Being "always on" often makes us less effective. Studies show that frequent interruptions from devices reduce focus, decrease productivity, and ,when our attention is divided, the quality of our work and interactions can suffer.
But the impact goes beyond individual performance. When we’re glued to our screens, we miss out on building genuine interpersonal relationships with our colleagues. Eye contact, active listening, and meaningful conversations are replaced with quick chats and scattered attention. Over time, this can erode trust, collaboration, and the sense of camaraderie that fuels a healthy team culture.
Finding balance with technology isn’t just a personal challenge—it’s crucial in the workplace. Here are a few ways to create healthier boundaries and with your devices at work:
Set Tech-Free Zones: Dedicate time or spaces where devices are off-limits, like meetings or brainstorming sessions.
Batch Notifications: Turn off non-urgent alerts and check messages at scheduled times to maintain focus.
Communicate Boundaries: Let your team know when you’re stepping away from devices to concentrate on deep work.
True productivity and team culture thrive when we’re present—not just connected. By challenging the “always on” mindset, we can create workplaces where technology supports, rather than hinders, collaboration and trust.
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