Online Status: Away Or: My Firm's Technology Ruined My Vacation.

• Author: Blitz, Adam
• Position: Tech Talk

Smartphones never stop buzzing! Seriously! Bzzz... it a client's text. Bzzz... an email from a partner: Bzzz... made a wrong turn on the highway on the way to the hotel and maps is recalculating.

The technology that's leaned upon to ensure the highest level of client service, information accessibility and timeliness is the same technology that bedevils the ability to escape, think, build relationships and grow as a human being.

My family took a trip to Disneyland following tax season and I was under the impression I took the necessary steps to advise my clients, my staff and any contacts that may need me for the couple days that I was gone that I would be "enjoying the happiest place on earth."

Apparently, it didn't matter!

Our smartphones are incredibly ingrained in our lifestyles. I was unable to separate the Disneyland vacation from checking my email. While checking the Disneyland app for the next FastPass, why not check my email? While checking how many steps I have walked that day, why not quickly text the office manager? While taking a picture of my kids, why not quickly take a peek at some cash flow updates? Oh, and I almost forgot all of those Apple Watch reminders, too.

The phone, as our work life, never stops! Luckily, this summer I have a couple additional opportunities to check out of the office and disconnect while enjoying the endless beauty of this world we live in. But, before I take these vacations, I'm ensuring that I build the following boundaries with technology that I decide to bring along to these destinations.

1. The phone is staying in a backpack.

   My phone is always in my pocket (if not in my hand). Well, on the next vacation, the phone is going in my backpack where it's not accessible at the easiest glance and I'm not distracted by the buzz or notification system. And while we're at it, the data feature is being turned off, as are all notifications. This will allow me to focus on the fun in front of me, while ensuring I have my phone in case of emergency.

2. Realizing the world will not end.

   Having only recently started my practice two years ago, my mantra has been...