How Our World Is Changing

 

I was born in the mid-1940s around the time when WW II was ending. Quite a lot has changed throughout the decades especially on how reliant we are with technology, from creating mastery culinary treats, all the way to advanced medical treatments that save people's lives. I have lived through a good amount of the changes and continue to try to adapt but I will say that as fascinating as it is, navigating through all the changes can be frustrating and at times overwhelming, not to mention expensive. 

 

As an example, the telephone system changed as I grew up. The old-style telephone system with all of the operators who handled the personal calls changed so that, for example, long-distance calls did not require an operator to make it but rather had it done by the individual keying in the number he/she wished to reach.  We also had corded phones, followed by cordless phones where you could walk anywhere in your home to talk to someone, without having to be constrained by the long twisty cord attached to your telephone. Now, cellphones, or rather "smart" phones offer capabilities that replace many of the items you purchased before. One can talk to almost anyone around the world with their phone (which acts as a webcam). Long-distance charges...why they cost mere pennies now per minute compared with the charges previously. If there is a charge at all.  What the heck is a telephone these days--- how do they look and how do they operate! 

The medical system is making amazing changes too. There are new devices that medical professionals use that can speed up the healing process or use technology so invasive surgery is not always the only resort. In  fact, I can remember one situation where I had a gall bladder attack and needed it removed right away. Unfortunately, back then, the large incision was done, which I still have a scar from and there was significant recovery time.  My daughter was fortunate when her attack came, the doctor suggested a new technique called laparoscopic surgery, which was far less invasive.   

When it comes to vehicles, the technology coming out is quite impressive. People can now talk to their cars to do different functions that once was only something that we could physically do ourselves. Want to change your radio station? Just press a button and it will be done for you. Call your loved one to say you're stuck in traffic, hook up your bluetooth system, without having to even pick up a phone. Are you lost? Don't get out the bulky map, just ask your GPS to guide you. I am really interested in seeing even more advancements in the next 5 years, as there is discussion of self-operating vehicles! Would there be even a need for drivers licenses? I am sure that would pose some problems for the government, as that is a source of revenue.  

Physical stores are trying to adapt to the demanding needs of consumers by changing their style of operations, including using trendy apps so consumers can purchase items with ease. Sadly, many cannot keep up and are going broke or closing down a significant number of locations. E-commerce is a huge business and continues to grow, while that "personal touch" you get in a store from a sales associate seems to be disappearing.

 

Instead of hiring many employees to do specific tasks, companies feel that one or two people can efficiently run a whole store. This is not always the case. Under-paid, over-worked staff and poor working conditions do not help a business to thrive, even though it may seem like it. If by chance, you, as a customer, encounter a negative experience while shopping, you'll go and spread the word. It's a domino effect.  Similarly, when you have a positive experience and share your joy with others, this can save a business that is struggling.

 

Clearly, money is made by businesses that continue to evolve and make positive changes in their operations. Listen to your customers! Invest in good marketing practices and do not think that just because you are number one today that you'll stay that way forever. There is always competition right around the corner in every single industry. Be ethical, no one likes a liar or a cheat! Exceed expectations in every transaction that you do.  

It's 2016, and my life has surely changed and continues to. I cannot do everything that I could do before I became ill. However, with the aid of technology (especially blogging which helps me be creative in my thought processes!) there are always opportunities for people, so go reach out and find them!