This disorder was first recognized in the 1990’s by a Dr. David Lewis who coined the term information fatigue syndrome.
Anyone out there suffering from information overload? Bogged down with the technology that is supposed to be helping you?
I remember when personal computers were first introduced (yes, I’m that old) and were hailed as a way to save time and reduce paperwork in the office.
This week I was working in an organization that is introducing a new computer system. The staff have been told they have to keep all the old paper files AND start entering data into the new computer program.
For the interim they have to enter the data twice. Everyone was busy before and now they have even more work to do! Not an uncommon scenario in most workplaces.
Add that to the fact that most people are expected to be available, if not 24/7, then for a good 8 to 10 hours a day and you have a recipe for stress and burnout.
And just like burnout, symptoms of information fatigue syndrome include the following:
- increased anxiety
- increased stress
- sleeplessness
- increased self-doubt in decision making (Do I have the right information? Do I have enough information? Have I backed up my information?)
Not only are many of us expected to keep up with the latest technology but we are overloaded with information from multiple sources…such as:
- voice mail
- meetings
- faxes (does anyone use these anymore?)
- internet
- face book
- blackberries
- websites
- blogs
- have I missed any?
How many of you go on vacation and take your blackberry or laptop with you?
A close friend of mine went on vacation and took her blackberry. Of course she couldn’t resist reading her office emails (this was a gal who complained about being overworked).
She ended up responding to an email and getting embroiled in an argument with her boss which essentially ruined her vacation. Yes, she was at fault for taking her blackberry with her…but isn’t that the expectation?
Aren’t we supposed to be connected to work 24/7?
Speaking of being unable to leave the computer alone…it’s the middle of summer…time to turn off the blackberry and leave the pc at the office…
And go for a walk!
Lesley
