Technology is messing with our time and mental health. To counteract this downside to technology we need to better understand our mindset/psychology when it comes to tech (e.g. frustrations, overwhelm, fears, bad habits), have a good skillset around managing and leveraging technology (brand, time management, focus, security) and have the right toolsets (devices, physical set up, use of AI) to support us. People are largely unaware of the downsides of their technology and are not taught how to set themselves up for success. In order to help teach on the Psychology of Personal Technology, I have written books, run workshops, created self-assessments and coaching programs. I believe this is going to become even more important we become more addicted to online media and as the digital divide becomes wider with the onset of AI, creating a bigger gap between those who are empowered by it and those who are left behind/do nothing. One of skill sets of technology competence is personal branding, which really took off online when I was working in a brand agency during the dotcom era. From 2013, I have taught 100’s of executives in large consultancies and firms about personal branding and LinkedIn, which I continue to this day. I have also extended this to teaching young people these skills, helping people who are out of work get jobs. As my 40 year marketing career has always been in technology firms, working for large tech brands like NCR, Oracle and DXC, it has always meant being first with new digital marketing approaches, but now it's all about AI and in the context of digital skills working out how to leverage personal agents. The industry moves fast. I started programming using punched cards and when the school trip was to see a computer. Its amazing what tech can do if we have a curious and disciplined approach to using it. Outside work I am married, living in Tonbridge Kent, an empty nester with three grown-up children, and an active member of Hillsong Church which I help establish locally. For leisure, I can be found looking after Grandchildren, traveling, sailing, playing golf, or walking my Cockerpoo Fleur in the countryside.If you want to chat or know more, please contact me at bbarker@educatedc.com