At a recent talk on work-life balance, when I spoke about reducing technological clutter, I asked my audience, "What's your technology drug of choice?"

We all have at least one. It might be Facebook or Twitter. Candy Crush or Trivia Crack. An unhealthy habit of constantly checking emails or texts on your mobile devices. The TV news or online news sites. It's where you go to escape or out of fear that you're "missing out on something." Or when you need to be connected without actually speaking to anyone.

Technology addiction takes its toll on us physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. It can lead to serious health problems and broken relationships.

As a child, I loved playing Scrabble with my mom and dad. As an adult, I yearned for worthy opponents since my husband and kids preferred other games. I found them through Words with Friends. 

Last month, I realized I was getting too much of a good thing. I found myself feeling anxious about keeping up with the 11 simultaneous games I had going with four different friends. Within a month, I had whittled that down to just four games, which not only gave me more peace but also more wins since I took the time to make the best moves. (I explained to each why I was not accepting their other rematch requests, so no feelings were hurt during this process--and perhaps that prompted them to do the same!)

That got me thinking...where else could I make conscious choices to control my technology addiction instead of letting technology control me?

I'm experimenting with shutting my phone off when I meet friends and clients for lunch. I now charge my phone and other devices outside my bedroom at night. Last Saturday afternoon, I ran errands without my iPhone and survived. Actually, I left it at home by mistake and, after a moment of panic, I liked the feeling of being unplugged.

I'm inspired by what others are doing. A friend is planning an off-the-grid vacation with very limited Internet and cell phone service so she won't be tempted to keep checking in at the office.

A woman at my speaking event said her company recently established a policy against work emails on the weekends. They will monitor whether that makes sense. Another participant said she carries two phones: one for work and the other for family and friends. That helps her disconnect from one or the other.

If unplugging a little appeals to you, consider finding a buddy to brainstorm ideas and then commit to making healthy changes. You'll benefit from having someone that will hold you accountable as you both inevitably experience withdrawal symptoms and are tempted to revert to your old habits. 

Always keep in mind the benefits that come from less technology--like better personal and professional relationships and increased productivity at work. Focus on the "whys" to keep you on track. And, finally, be patient and kind to yourself. Even small changes will make a difference.

How do you, or will you, unplug? Take a moment to share your wisdom on my Facebook Page or reply back to me. I love hearing from you!