How Innovation in Technology Helps You Rest, Recharge, and Rise 

You’ve spent the year pushing deadlines, supporting teams, and driving innovation, and somewhere in between, you forgot to put yourself on the roadmap. 

When we say self-care, we don’t mean rigid resolutions or self-improvement plans; we mean embracing small lifestyle shifts and joys that help you thrive, like a few quiet minutes, a new book, or a gadget that makes life easier. 

Innovation in technology is changing how we work while also reshaping how we rest, recover, and treat ourselves. Here, we’ll explore how tech-enabled self-care, personal growth, and intuitive decision-making can help you lead, create, and live more sustainably. 

Treat Yourself: What It Really Means 

We need to view treating yourself as maintenance instead of indulgence. That’s not to say you should treat yourself outside your means; it’s more about the recognition that your energy, focus, and creativity need care just like any high-performing system. 

Instead of thinking about resolutions as a checklist of things to “fix,” ask yourself: What lifestyle changes serve me right now? This shift turns self-care from a task into a choice that fuels both your personal and professional growth. 

Follow the gut intuitions you’ve been ignoring. You already know what you’re good at and what you’re being called to do, so go chase it. Treating yourself starts with listening to that inner guide and giving it the space to lead. 

Innovation in Technology That Supports Self-Care 

Technology does so much for us all daily that we often forget it can also make self-care easier, more enjoyable, and more intentional. From tools that help you relax to gadgets that free up your time, innovation can support the lifestyle shifts that help you thrive. 

A. Tech for Rest + Relaxation 

Sometimes, the best use of technology helps us slow down. A few simple innovations can turn ordinary downtime into restorative self-care: 

• Kindle holders, book lights, and ergonomic book pillows for uninterrupted reading. 
• Soft slippers, smart ambient lighting, or soothing soundscapes that create cozy, calming environments. 
• Calming apps and sleep-tracking tools that help you unplug and recharge intentionally. 

Use tech to help you pause and fill your cup. 

B. Tech That Makes Life Smoother 

Innovation can also simplify everyday tasks, freeing up mental space for the things that truly matter: 

• Mini kitchen gadgets like drink mixers or countertop storage. 
• Meal-planning apps, grocery delivery services, or smart shopping tools. 
• Smart home devices that automate chores, so you don’t have to think twice about them. 

You don’t have to do everything manually! Technology exists to support you, making more room for rest, creativity, and joy. 

C. Tech for Knowledge + Growth 

Treating yourself can also mean investing in the version of you you’re becoming: 

• Online course platforms and micro-learning apps for skill-building on your own schedule. 
• Tools to discover new music, performances, shows, or cultural experiences. 
• Platforms that make upskilling and exploration more accessible, helping you grow personally and professionally. 

With the right tech, self-care can be full of rest and curiosity, growth, and intentional living. 

What Treating Yourself Actually Looks Like 

Self-care isn’t one-size-fits-all. Treating yourself can take many forms, depending on what fills your cup and restores your energy. Here’s a spectrum of ways to make it happen: 

1. Rest

   Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is nothing at all. Rest for the sake of rest, without guilt or expectation.

   • Engage in activities that truly fill you: create art, explore hobbies, take long walks, or enjoy cozy rituals.
   • Curl up in your favorite blanket, dive into a book, or simply pause.
   • Plan intentional downtime with low sensory stimulation and quiet.

   Remember: rest looks different for everyone. Honor what feels right for you.

2. Knowledge + Exploration

   Treating yourself can also mean feeding your curiosity and expanding your mind.

   • Read the fiction or nonfiction that sparks your interest.
   • Sign up for that course or training you’ve been bookmarking.
   • Attend a new show, concert, or cultural experience.
   • Explore hobbies, cultures, or passions that call to you.
   • Follow your curiosity! Seek what you want to know and let inspiration guide you.
3. Doing What You Know You Need

   Self-care isn’t always glamorous; sometimes it’s the practical actions that make the biggest difference.

   • Eat breakfast, prep meals, or take care of daily routines that sustain you.
   • Run errands or handle tasks you’ve been putting off, freeing up mental space.
   • Visit shops or places that bring you joy, like antique stores, local businesses, or cafés you love.

   These quiet, practical acts of self-care support your overall energy, focus, and wellbeing.

Why This Matters for Women in Tech 

High-performing women in tech often put their own needs last, juggling ambitious projects and systemic barriers. Treating yourself is an act of self-advocacy. It’s claiming space for your energy, focus, and wellbeing. Like WeAreTechWomen says, “Rest could be the next breakthrough in tech.” 

Innovation in technology makes it easier to build lives with rest, agency, and purpose. When you invest in yourself, you strengthen your ability to lead, create, innovate, and drive meaningful change in the tech ecosystem. 

Take a Moment for You 

Take one small “treat yourself” action today, whether that’s opening a new book, trying a new gadget, or simply giving yourself the gift of rest. 

And if personal growth is part of how you treat yourself, don’t forget: if you attended GHC this year, you already have a free year of Premium AnitaB.org Membership waiting for you. Join today to access courses, networking, resources, and support designed to help you thrive.