This post is a great reminder as we head for the holidays!

A study by InterCall reports that 48% of American workers “who use technology in their everyday jobs say that they are now required to do more work with fewer resources due to the current economic climate.” What’s more, 30% “feel that they need to stay connected to work 24/7, even during weekends, breaks, or holidays.”

Technology is a double-edged sword; being able to be “on call” and ready to work any time is great for productivity, but it can be hard on individuals and very hard on marriages/families. Many years ago, I had a job that had me on call (I had a pager, as this was pre-cell-phone) all but about 6 hours of the day and night. It was rough, and I was single at the time. Beyond the annoyance of being called in when I was in the middle of something, it was always in the back of my head that I could be interrupted at any minute. I can imagine how destructive that could be to a marriage!

If you have the ability to control how connected you are, I suggest you set up no connection times; times when you and your wife know you won’t be distracted. Occasional no connection weekends could be especially important. If you have no control, ask yourself if what’s being required of you is acceptable. Is your work endangering your marriage or cheating your kids? If so, which is more important to you?

[This post first appeared April 23, 2010.]

Today is Five Dollar Friday: We have just made our goal for the year! A huge thanks to everyone. Of course, you can still donate if you feel called to do so. Donate online with a credit card, or toss a check in the mail:

The Marriage Bed
4641 Lyons Hill Road
Springdale, WA 99173-9708

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