## Assumption My underlying assumption was that technology helps reduce the time required to complete tasks. Cars enabled faster transportation, planes facilitated quicker travel, Slack improved communication speed, and now Generative AI accelerates information processing and production. ## Facts There’s a thesis that disputes that the more time-saving technology we use, the less time we seem to have (paradox of technology and time).  Here’s what it says: “The relationship between technology and time is complex and paradoxical. On one hand, time-saving technologies were supposed to give us more free time, but the acceleration of life brought about by these technologies often leaves us feeling more time-starved than ever before. The productivity gains from technology have not directly translated into a reduced workweek for most people as initially predicted. This is partly due to the "productivity paradox" where more technology can also lead to distractions, information overload, and inefficiencies that offset some of the time-saving benefits.” Let’s look at one example: Email and Instant Messaging - **Promise:** Email and instant messaging allow for almost instantaneous communication, saving time compared to traditional mail. - **Paradox:** The ease and speed of communication have led to an overwhelming volume of messages, creating a constant need to check and respond to emails and messages, often leading to a feeling of being perpetually busy and having less time for deep, focused work. In a nutshell, technology has made it easier and faster to get things done. However, the time we've saved is often filled with more tasks and obligations. Technology alone won't help us reclaim that time - we as individuals must take steps to do so. > [!Tip] Feedback > See an error or have something to say? Let me know at [email protected] or on [Twitter](https://x.com/sokratus) ##### Sources - [The Paradox of technology and time : a symmetrical approach](https://www.duo.uio.no/handle/10852/17795?locale-attribute=en) - [Why Hasn’t All This Technology Given Us More Leisure Time? | UiPath](https://www.uipath.com/blog/digital-transformation/what-happened-four-hour-workweek)