Clothes Turned Into Computers

Much like the screens on mobile phones, these fabrics could register the user’s touch and transmit information elsewhere, like to a smartphone or tablet computer. They are made from conductive yarns that come in a rainbow of colors and can withstand the clothing manufacturing process, so “can be woven into textiles on the same looms that are used to make traditional fabrics,” according to a Google news release. Google also announced a new partnership with Levi Strauss in which the companies would try to make interactive garments that would allow people to do things like send someone a text message by swiping their jacket cuff. How do you feel about being able to use your clothes as part of a mobile application? What about the risk of others hacking sensors on the clothes? With the internet of things, the security needs to be that much better.

Take Time Without Screens

I have a challenge for you. Take several hours (waking) of each day and do something without a screen. It might serve as a healthy reminder of just how tethered you are to your screens. It will also set a wonderful example for the children in your life. One of the things that you can do is take time to eat together without any phones at all. Sounds simple enough but too many times I see people that are supposed to be eating together engrossed in their smartphones and communication services. Another thing that you can try is to play a board game. Seriously. When was the last time you tried that instead of Words With Friends? You should also try making art, any art. Creating something will actually get those happy chemicals flowing and if might help you in your career as well. If you are really stuck on what to make, try one of those zen coloring books. Lastly, take a hike somewhere and enjoy the fresh air. Really appreciate the smells and sounds. Stop and smell the roses.

Lighting and Your Mood

If you're feeling sleepy or irritable, or suffering from headaches during the workday, there may be a reason you haven't considered--your lighting. We tend not to think about the lighting too much as long as we can see alright. Since we spend a good part of our under those light pounding away on the computer working on the latest web application project, it might be worth a look. First of all, it is interesting to note that most work places have levels of lighting that are way higher than OSHA recommendations. More light does always mean better and clearer vision. So turn it down a bit. Blue light occurs in nature and boosts attention and mood during the morning and early afternoon. The only problem is that when we work past sunset and continue to be bombarded with blue light because too much of it disrupts sleep cycles. To solve this problem, look for lighting options with less blue light. Finally, use natural light as much as possible. It will help with eye strain and you might even save on the electric bill.

Streamlining Life

While you were very busy running the show at your business, there were chores piling up and other things that needed to get done. At the office, you are already using cloud services and internet phone systems but there are other things at home that could be streamlined to be more productive. First of all you need to see your time as translatable into money. Then based on that decision, see if you can actually hire someone to do it cheaper that what you make in that time. One of the things that you can start with is the laundry and dry cleaning. There is a company that will pick up and drop off your laundry for you so you can go to those meetings looking your best. Nothing says stress like a trip to the grocery story. The parking lot is littered with carts and slow moving meanderers and those screaming bratty kids. There are actually several companies that will deliver the food for you right to your door. Lastly, it is also important that you plan your weekend to get the most out of your relaxation time.