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I’ve noticed a disturbing trend: We’ve all have become slaves to our smart phones.

As the gadget du jour, smart phones are supposed to increase productivity and reduce stress. And for 20% of you, this is true. Unfortunately, for the remainder, it’s only made your life spin more out of control.

It’s not Steve Job’s fault, it’s the operator. Without rules of engagement, a smart phone only further exasperates existing challenges. The following are several tips that will allow you to better harness the power of any smart phone:

Use a System. If you think your smart phone will get you organized, you’re sadly mistaken. Begin with a productivity or organizational system. There are plenty of ways to organize your “stuff”. For me, David Allen’s, Getting Things Done methodology has worked best.

Get Off the Pipe. Don’t feel the need to be in immediate and constant touch with the rest of the world. Respond during preset times in the day that make sense for your energy level.

Be In the Moment. This has become endemic issue for many of my clients. Don’t let the phone distract you from your current commitment, be it a meeting, lunch date, or simply a peaceful walk on the beach.

Make Time for Free Thinking. Along the same lime, set time everyday for “email/phone free” time for free thinking or strategic planning.

Use on Vacation Sparingly. While on vacation, let others know you’ll have limited access. Check your mail or phone 2x per day and stick to it. If customers, employers or colleagues demand you respond right away, save your money and stay home because you’re not “on vacation”.

What are your real objectives? If this email or phone call doesn’t help with your strategic goals, get rid of it fast.

Learn Key Features. Many of these phones offer features that dramatically increase the phone’s capabilities. Take the time to learn them.

Do you have any tips that work for you? Email me your ideas and I’ll post them.

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