Newsletter No.32
Distribution 3,709
Reconnect this Holiday Season with a Tech Detox
by Jodie Mrotek, STA WIF Chair

As individuals we rely on technology for the benefits it brings to managing our professional and personal lives. With the holidays approaching, is now a good time to step away from our normal use (or more than likely, overuse) of technology and instead go with a more human approach? In other words, could we all benefit from a tech detox?

According to experts, Americans spend more than half of their waking life staring at a screen. Many of us would agree with this statistic, and also with the fact that there are real negative consequences of this behavior. Finding the motivation or strength to change it, however, is very difficult. Well, maybe that motivation can be found in the holidays.

Year-end holidays present a unique opportunity to connect with family, friends and colleagues. It is the time of year for us to reflect on what has passed and what is to come with a new year. Holidays bring us closer and remind us that while work and career are important, it is our relationships that play the larger role in determining our happiness and overall well-being. If you are one of the millions of people seeking strength to look away from a screen and into the eyes of a human being, STA WIF hopes you can find it this holiday season.
Businesswoman pressing modern social buttons on a virtual background
News Highlights 
7 Tips for a Technology Detox - Psychology Today
by Gregory L. Jantz, Ph.D.
"The more things you’re hooked into, the harder this will be and the more  anxiety  it will produce. But if conducted in a thoughtful manner, a detox can help you release some of the negative buildup of your technology use and give you the break you need to make better choices going forward." full story

Digital Detox, Disconnect to Reconnect
We are more globally connected than ever before, but life in the digital age is far from ideal. The average American spends more than half of their waking life staring at a screen. The negative psychological, social and cultural impact is real. Things need to change. full story

This Thanksgiving, consider a Tech Detox for you and your family (especially teens)!
By Jeanine Padala, Novo Wellness for Life
"There is plenty of research on the detrimental effects of being glued to our devices/technology, from social withdrawal, inactivity, inability to read social cues and facial expressions" full story

A digital De-Tox can change your life
by Alena Hall, Healthy Living
"Let’s face it: we don’t always have the healthiest relationship with technology. From endlessly scanning social media sites to incessantly checking emails, we tote around serious digital baggage day after day that wreaks havoc on our minds and bodies. Headaches and  “text neck”  aren’t the only physical ailments caused by staying constantly connected. Harvard Medical School scientists found that using a cell phone or laptop before bed can  disrupt the body’s production of melatonin..." full story
Other Articles of Interest

FINRA's New SIE Exam will create opportunities to enter - or re-enter - the securities industry. Learn more

5 Ways To Figure Out If You're Underpaid at Work - And Get Even
by Erika Driscoll, Style Salute
"Get your  power pose  on, be confident, and remember you’re backed by facts of what you are worth. If you’re told “no,” don’t retreat. There are lots of things that are worth money that isn’t actual money. Walk away with something. Here are some ideas for “ non-money ” perks you can ask for: full story

Protecting Your Budget During The Holiday Season
"Retire Inspired" Author, Chris Hogan interview with Maria Bartiroma