Don't Upgrade

November 2018 — Tip of the Month

Part of life in the digital age is the constant pressure to upgrade to the latest technology. New phones, tablets, and computers top the list, but they are only a few of the dozens of devices that we see advertised on a daily basis. There is an evergrowing number of "smart" appliances, such as smart TVs, smart speakers, smart thermostats, and smart window treatments, just to name a few. And don't forget smartphones and other wearable electronics.

It may seem like you are constantly behind on technology. But that's OK. Just because a new or newer technology exists, it doesn't mean you need it. I learned this the hard way when I spent a few thousand dollars on motorized window treatments last month that I could control with an app. Because they are controlled by a motor, I can't adjust them manually, which is really annoying. Now I am paying more money to have cheaper traditional blinds installed.

I've heard similar things from people who have upgraded their phone, computer, or even their car because they were convinced they needed something better. Within a few days, they realized there were several things they liked about their old one better.

We all have to upgrade our electronics, our cars, and even our homes at some point, but just because you can doesn't mean you should. If your phone has been working great and doesn't feel annoyingly slow after two years, why pay for a new phone that you might not even like as much?

- Per Christensson