Running a small business is a lifestyle not a job. Keeping up on industry trends, making new connections and maintaining relationships are key components in your success in addition to the actual running of the day-to-day operations. Now, add in the rapid changes in the technology arena and it is easy to see how we often feel overwhelmed and behind the curve. Here is some general advice on how to keep your tech literacy up-to-date:

1. Determine what you know and what you don’t know. Congratulate yourself on the former and make a plan to correct the latter. If you feel particularly weak or lost on a certain topic—it probably means that you know that others have outpaced you. Leave the stress behind by coming up with a plan to fill in the blanks of your knowledge.

2. Weigh your options. Think about how you learn best. There are lots of great resources out there for all type of learners—books, in-person training, on-line tutorials, college coursework, library seminars, asking for the help of a trusted colleague, paid consultants or even self-instruction by reading articles on the internet.

3. Keep up-to-date by reading your industry-relevant publications and attending meetings. Newsletters and trade magazines cover technology by presenting specific examples of applications in your field and meetings will help you connect with others and see how they are using tech to compete in the same market as you.

4. Talk to your colleagues and ask questions. Most people love to talk about their new gadgets or skills. Thank them for their time and insights, knowing that they are sharing their valuable information.

What tips do you have that have worked for you? Please share them in the comments!