
Yesterday, I went on a service call to help Don (name changed) , a senior citizen having trouble with his computer. During his working life, he was an accomplished business leader, who still dabbles in activities that make a difference.
He was mystified, as many people are, as to why his computer was not working.
I arrived to help, and noticed that the computer was installing updates, and periodically, the screen went black. It was at one of those times, that Don saw the black screen, and thought his computer wasn't working.
It happens to many of us - particularly if we're focused on our work and play, and not the internal, infernal workings of our computers. No longer novelties, they are commodities. But oh, how they have the power to vex and frustrate, when they don't work well.
Having solved his problem(!), I asked him about his other needs, listened intently, and decided to use the remaining time to help solve other problems - like backing up his computer system and valuable documents.
He was mystified, as many people are, as to why his computer was not working.
I arrived to help, and noticed that the computer was installing updates, and periodically, the screen went black. It was at one of those times, that Don saw the black screen, and thought his computer wasn't working.
It happens to many of us - particularly if we're focused on our work and play, and not the internal, infernal workings of our computers. No longer novelties, they are commodities. But oh, how they have the power to vex and frustrate, when they don't work well.
Having solved his problem(!), I asked him about his other needs, listened intently, and decided to use the remaining time to help solve other problems - like backing up his computer system and valuable documents.
meaningful conversation
Here's an excerpt of our conversation:
Randy: "To the best of your knowledge, are your documents and photos backed up?"
Don: "I guess so, they're on the computer."
Randy: "That means probably not. Let me help you."
Randy: "Tell me what you're interested in doing. I can back it up, and just get it done. Or, I can tell you what I'm doing, so that you can learn about it."
Don: "I'm all for learning!"
Randy: "To the best of your knowledge, are your documents and photos backed up?"
Don: "I guess so, they're on the computer."
Randy: "That means probably not. Let me help you."
Randy: "Tell me what you're interested in doing. I can back it up, and just get it done. Or, I can tell you what I'm doing, so that you can learn about it."
Don: "I'm all for learning!"
satisfying experience
And so, together we backed up his valuable memories.
Frankly, it felt very good to do so. Not only doing the technical, computer backup portion, but helping another person to see the possibilities, to enable a greater sense of control (i.e., this computer serves my needs), and to empower him in his own learning and growth.
I am glad I was able to help Don, and a satisfying and meaningful experience for both of us.
Note: If you know of a senior citizen who needs assistance / support with their computer - whether it needs to be repaired, tuned-up, backed up, or just wants to learn - please let them know about me / digiWise.
I'll be very grateful for the opportunity to help them.
Frankly, it felt very good to do so. Not only doing the technical, computer backup portion, but helping another person to see the possibilities, to enable a greater sense of control (i.e., this computer serves my needs), and to empower him in his own learning and growth.
I am glad I was able to help Don, and a satisfying and meaningful experience for both of us.
Note: If you know of a senior citizen who needs assistance / support with their computer - whether it needs to be repaired, tuned-up, backed up, or just wants to learn - please let them know about me / digiWise.
I'll be very grateful for the opportunity to help them.