As a professor at NYU and in her academic research, Anna's work focused on identity. Specifically, the relativity of it: Changing the way we show up in the world transforms our claim to power in social contexts. This is possible in both the "real" world and (increasingly) in virtual spaces. 

In other words, changing your “appearance” can change your reality.

We are no longer locked into the circumstances and biographies into which we are born. Instead, we are given a chance to dream beyond those limiting realities — toward an "aspirational identity." Perception, particularly in the age of technology, is the marker of reality. A prospect that is as liberating as it is terrifying.

But what are the ethical boundaries of those “aspirational” dreams, particularly on digital platforms?

In a world of millions of virtual connections and increasingly fewer real-world interactions, we will go to great lengths to form connections, find happiness, establish trust, bond deeply, and make a buck. Often, that demands presenting different aspects of our identities. When does it cross a line?

This talk explores the possibilities and pitfalls of changing what it means to be "You," while also looking at the ethical and professional considerations.

• The return of local and the rise of domestic: how the pendulum is and will continue to swing as a result of the pandemic and its aftermath, ushering in a shift in priorities and goals, resetting society and the way we operate in many ways: how and from where we work/live/vacation/travel (real estate/hospitality/travel industry component) meet/connect/collaborate/date, spend our free time, nourish ourselves, etc. 

• Women and the pandemic: There's also an angle on the unique challenges and opportunities for women — particularly women with children — as a result of these shifts, including new income streams, flex work time, childcare, etc. (i.e. will fewer women opt out of the workforce after having children? will more professional women feel that having a family is now a viable option?

Pings, news alerts, social media likes, EMAIL. We all struggle to manage our 24/7 connection to technology in a way that feels healthy and balanced, often at the peril of our personal relationships, the work we produce, and even our own sanity. How do we reclaim some “sacred space” and allow ourselves to find flow in an overly mediated world, without compromising our work and professionalism?

In this presentation, sociologist Anna Akbari, PhD, applies her decade of research on human/technology relationships to offer rules to guide you toward digital happiness, personal well-being, and enhanced productivity in a hyper-connected world. Through audience engagement before and during the presentation, this presentation offers a customized understanding of the effects of digital engagement and helps you to optimize your relationship with technology by creating a framework for setting and following your own technology rules, in both your personal and professional life. Leaders and managers can apply this framework for setting the tone within their companies and industries.