We know all too well how technology has become intertwined in nearly all areas of life. Advancements in technology come with huge benefits. It has made life easier in a lot of ways but has also made us a bit too dependent and connected. Imagine this: you get to work, or out to dinner at a restaurant, and you realize you've forgotten your phone. A quick panic comes over you...you feel naked, disconnected. What do you do with your hands?! This may be a bit exaggerated, maybe not. It's probably fair to say that at times you may resent technology for making you feel this way when you don't have access to it at your fingertips.

Imagine back to a time before smart phones, before social media...this should be easy, it's your entire childhood and most of your adult life! Going back to what used to be seems really hard to imagine, as we've grown accustomed to technology being everywhere. If you find yourself feeling a bit resentful or dissatisfied with your relationship to technology, maybe it's time to make some changes. Inc.com featured an article recently with some tips on how to have a healthier relationship with technology...just in time for a New Year!

The first suggestion is to take a break from social media. You don't have to give it up for good but take a few weeks off from it and see how you feel. The first few days might be tough, but chances are you won't miss it as much as you think. Taking a break can allow you to gain more free time, focus on your goals, and set boundaries. Curoius what a social media "detox" is like? Read about one man's 30 day journey to see how his experience went and what he learned.

Another thing you can do is turn off your notifications for basically everything. Unless you're awaiting a super important email, you don't need the distraction of beeps and buzzes every few minutes. Notifications are just another way apps try and get you to engage more, so get rid of the distractions and you'll be able to focus better on other things.

Have a wearable like a FitBit? Stop wearing it all the time and only wear it when you're actively trying to lose weight, train for a race etc. If your FitBit or Apple Watch delivers text messages, having them come through on your wrist makes it nearly impossible to disconnect.

Finally, establish no-phone zones to decrease your screen time. Maybe keep it out of your bedroom or away from the dinner table. The main point is to keep it out of reach, so you don't grab it mindlessly and start scrolling...and scrolling...and scrolling.

Try these tips and hopefully you'll have a better relationship with technology this year.