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Scaling Your Internal Barriers to Computer Use

Do you find yourself avoiding computers for any of the reasons below? See if any or all of these rationales have kept you from relating to the disk-driven devils. Often, our fears come down to specific misconceptions we can blast away with reason. Before you let a tiny trepidation grow into a big, bad aversion, read on. I've de-bugged these attitudes with more affirmative thoughts. Remember - I only know these cop-outs because I've caught them in myself. And here they are... Live Wire's Top 18 (Hey, I'm Not Letterman) List of Why Women Can't Compute.

1. Because computers are scary.

So is unemployment.

2. Because you couldn't possibly learn everything there is to know.

Most users learn what they need to know as they go along. You don't have to know it all to use it all.

3. Because you've heard horror stories about things that go wrong.

Computers are complicated, true, and sometimes they fail us. You develop ways to solve your problems -- check the manual, back up your files, write things down, call for help, curse loudly. If you want to be in the game, you don't quit over one bad play.

4. Because it doesn't really affect your life.

Even if you don't have a home computer, every enterprise on which you depend uses this equipment. You need a basic understanding of how the system works in order to take care of yourself and your family, protect yourself against fraud and fight for your rights. If you have a daughter or granddaughter, your enthusiasm and involvement can open her eyes to the possibility of high-paying, satisfying work in technical fields.

5. Because you can't go inside and see how they work.

Women are expected to deal with feelings all the time -- and we can't see them, either.

6. Because they're boring.

Not when they crash, they're not. Seriously, folks...if computers help you to do the things you love, you will not be bored. When you use networks to "talk" to other people, that will not be boring either.

7. Because they're only for smart people.

Thirty years ago, computers were for technical experts and locked up in big, air-conditioned rooms. Today, just as much power sits on your desk. You don't need to know a secret language. Besides, kids use computers all the time -- and the last time I checked, they weren't any smarter than before.

8. Because you don't have one.

Well, get one. Or borrow one. Or use one at the library. Big retailers and computer stores sell decently priced packages that come with everything you need to start. In an hour or so, you can plug everything together, turn on the computer and start to mess around.

9. Because what you have isn't good enough.

It should be good enough to start. As you learn basic operations, you will develop a sense of what you want to do next. Then, you can add new programs. You can also learn about "upgrading" your equipment by asking knowledgeable friends and calling big suppliers, such as PC Connection (a helpful mail order house), Compaq and Dell. If the salesperson confuses you, switch to another.

10. Because you don't know where to begin.

It's like any other skill: Begin at the beginning. Why be put off by computers when you're willing to go through labor and you've never had a baby?

11. Because you're so far behind that you'll never catch up.

Except for technical jobs, there's no standard of proficiency. Anything you learn will be to your benefit. If you avoid learning this new field, however, you'll guarantee failure. Your choice.

12. Because you can't compete with a 23-year old guy programmer who skateboards to work.

You don't have to; the field's big enough for everybody. Besides, at some point the next generation will roller-blade over that guy.

13. Because your husband, your boyfriend, your brother takes care it.

Then you will never be self-sufficient. Plus, they might not do it your way. They might just screw it up! And it hurts your self-image to be dependent in this way.

14. Because you'll ruin your eyes.

Would you rather ruin them in a good-paying, interesting job or by sewing shorts and typing memos?

15. Because you'll ruin your nails.

Cut them.

16. Because you'll get carpal tunnel.

Far less likely if you type lightly and use supports for your wrists and arms. They made the difference for me. I also switched to a "trackball" instead of a "mouse" device for controlling the cursor.

17. Because it doesn't feel right.

Anything new won't. Also, as a woman approaching a techno-mechanical subject, you might feel excluded and uncomfortable. Concentrate on how great it is to prove what women really can do. In time, you'll feel more at home.

18. Because you're a people person.

You will always be a people person, just a people person with computer skills. That's a great advantage. As computers become more pervasive, there's a growing number of careers for people who can span the technical and non-technical worlds.

'Nuff said. Next month: Live Wire helps you get started with computers, and maps out the places you can get help on your journey.

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