January 12, 2026
Join millions embracing Dry January by ditching the habits that weigh you down.
Businesses have their own version of Dry January—breaking free from harmful tech routines that drain productivity and security.
Though these habits seem harmless or just "part of the busy day," they quietly threaten your success.
Let's tackle six damaging tech habits you should eliminate immediately—and find better strategies to replace them.
Habit #1: Ignoring Software Updates by Clicking "Remind Me Later"
That seemingly innocent button causes more harm than cyber attackers ever could.
Updates aren't just bells and whistles—they close security gaps hackers exploit relentlessly.
Delaying updates from days into weeks and months leaves your business exposed with outdated, vulnerable software.
Ransomware outbreaks like WannaCry devastated companies that postponed critical patches—costing billions globally.
Action step: Automate updates to run during off-hours or let an IT expert handle background installs—no interruptions, zero risks.
Habit #2: Using One Password for Every Account
Many rely on a "go-to" password that's easy to remember and seems strong.
But when data breaches occur—as they frequently do—this recycled password becomes a master key sold to cybercriminals.
Hackers don't guess anymore; they test stolen credentials across your accounts in a vicious tactic called credential stuffing.
Take control: Adopt a trusted password manager like LastPass, 1Password, or Bitwarden. Just one master password unlocks complex, unique credentials for every site, keeping you protected without hassle.
Habit #3: Sharing Passwords via Text, Email, or Chat
Quickly passing login details through messages seems efficient, but those credentials linger indefinitely—in inboxes, backups, and search archives.
If any email account is compromised, attackers can scour messages for passwords—like mailing your house keys to intruders.
Secure sharing: Use password managers that offer encrypted sharing without revealing actual passwords. If you must share manually, split information across channels and immediately change passwords afterward.
Habit #4: Granting Admin Access Indiscriminately
Giving everyone admin rights because "it's easier" is a security disaster waiting to happen.
Admins control powerful settings—from installing software to disabling protections. If compromised, attackers wield full control.
Ransomware thrives on such broad access to cause maximum damage quickly.
Smart management: Apply the principle of least privilege. Everyone gets only the access they need. It takes a bit more setup but saves you from costly breaches and mistakes.
Habit #5: Letting "Temporary" Workarounds Become Permanent Practices
What started as a quick fix years ago might now be your daily grind.
These inefficient shortcuts not only drain time but are fragile, relying on outdated conditions or forgotten tricks that collapse unexpectedly.
Get organized: List every workaround your team relies on. Then, with expert help, implement real solutions that streamline workflows and eradicate ongoing headaches.
Habit #6: Relying on a Complex Spreadsheet to Run Your Business
That notorious Excel file with endless tabs and cryptic formulas is a ticking time bomb.
If it gets corrupted or the few who understand it leave, your operations face chaos.
Spreadsheets lack audit trails, proper backups, scalability, and security—making them poor foundations for critical business tasks.
Upgrade now: Document what processes the spreadsheet supports, then migrate them to specialized tools like CRMs, inventory systems, or scheduling software. These platforms offer backups, permissions, and ease of maintenance.
Why Do These Harmful Habits Persist?
You're well aware these tech shortcuts carry risks—but busyness keeps you stuck.
- Risks remain unseen until a major problem strikes suddenly.
- The right methods often seem slower initially, making shortcuts tempting.
- When the whole team engages in risky behavior, it feels normal—not dangerous.
Dry January succeeds because it interrupts autopilot patterns and makes hidden issues clear—just like the shift you need in your business technology.
Break Bad Tech Habits by Changing Your Environment, Not Relying on Willpower
Willpower alone won't end these routines. The solution lies in making the right actions the easy default.
- Deploy company-wide password managers to eliminate insecure sharing.
- Automate updates to remove "remind me later" choices.
- Centralize permission management to prevent unnecessary admin access.
- Replace fragile workarounds with robust technical solutions.
- Migrate critical spreadsheets to professional platforms with backups and controls.
When you design your systems for success, good habits become the simple default—and risky behaviors harder than the safe path.
A proactive IT partner doesn't lecture but transforms your technology landscape, enabling seamless, secure, and efficient operations.
Ready to End the Tech Habits Holding Your Business Back?
Schedule a Bad Habit Audit with us.
In just 15 minutes, we'll discuss your unique challenges and provide a custom roadmap to permanently eliminate those costly habits.
No jargon. No judgment. Just a pathway to a smoother, safer, and more profitable 2026.
Click here or give us a call at (541) 726-7775 to book your 15-Minute Discovery Call.
Some habits deserve to be quit cold turkey—and January is the perfect moment to begin.
