I strongly believe that, in 2011, we will see the envelope pushed to another level when it comes to sales and marketing.  Advertisers are already scrambling to find their place with the new technologies and phone apps are changing our lives by the minute.  The new touch screen pads wars are going to hit high gear as we move completely into the age of “Smart Life.”  Smart Life, as I see it, will become the frontier to gage our socioeconomic accomplishments and gaps.   Thousands at a time, we will emerge, showing our new gadgets that control our learning, entertainment, relationships and lives.  We will see things in ways we’ve never seen before, as our global technological landscape connects us 24/7 with both friends and foes. 

What are we giving up?

Some of the gains are obvious, but I heard someone say not long ago that the biggest technology change in the 1900s that impacted our ability to relate and communicate was the microwave.  The benefits were obvious and were sold to us as a convenience.  What we lost was the experience of the daily preparation of food.  Our children began to fend for themselves, as the volume of heat-able meals became available at an affordable price.  The seven days of formal food prep became six, and reduced to zero literally overnight, except on those special occasions. 

The advancements that we will experience this year are yet another cornerstone of monumental change. We will be able to control our homes, cars and lives in ways we never imagined just a few years ago.  What we will continue to lose is the human connection and the ability to communicate with purpose.  Relationships will become shallower each passing day, as we initiate and halt with just a symbol. 

How can we win?

We will win by creating opportunities to engage meaningful lifestyle enhancements.  Relationships will thrive in group settings, as virtual communities are established with live interactive broadcasts to all of our “Smart Life” devices.  We will win through the advancement of health, wellness and education.  We will forge new relationships based on true common interest.  Ultimately, we have an opportunity to change what might be harmful in a swift manner.  Growth can only come when there are movements, and I predict there will be movements.  Change is a constant, and we are establishing a new speed for change.  Enjoy the ride!