All Psyched Up: Computer Illiteracy

By Dr. Linda Hancock on December 20, 2025.

I remember seeing a huge IBM computer in the 1960s that filled a whole room.

It required controlled temperature and punched cards as well as an expert to feed it and keep it running. We were promised the day would come when we could each have our own computer that would save us time and money.

Well, that is several decades ago, and we have computers on our desks, on our laps and in our watches. Interestingly, people often struggle with keeping their system going.

I used to blame myself when my computer didn’t work but am long past that. Now I realize that often the software has a bug or things had changed in some far-off place over of which I have no control. It’s not my fault when someone, somewhere pushes buttons that they think will make things better.

My son is an expert with computers and has taught me some very simple and practical methods for dealing with computer problems (and my angst). Today I will share them with you:

1. You cannot wreck a computer. You might end up in a place that isn’t helpful but there is always a way to get out of there.

2. If you can read, you can do what you need to do. Quit hitting the submit button. Just allow the time for the background program to do what it needs to do.

3. If you have done what it tells you and it doesn’t work, then it is time to contact a professional to help you. Dial the 1-800 number and explain what is happening.

Years ago, an IT person laughed when he told me that people in his field have a “fix and flee” mentality. That means that you ask them to fix something and after they hang up you realize that something else isn’t working. Try to keep the technician on the phone with you until you can ensure that everything is working properly.

Also, my son reminds me to do the updates that are required so that you have the latest improvements and make sure that you turn your computer off at night so it, like you, can rest and restore.

Finally, I have decided to never try to keep up with all the changes in the world of technology. I am fascinated when I find out something that I didn’t know which can save me time and effort but all you really need to get that kind of training is some time with a nine-year-old!

Dr. Linda Hancock, the author of “Life is An Adventure…every step of the way” and “Open for Business Success” is a Registered Psychologist who has a private practice in Calgary. She can be reached by email at office@drlindahancock.com

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