Do you notice people getting more uncomfortable with in-person communication? Are you also noticing that some people are more bold when it comes to texting and emailing? These are two things I’ve noticed a ton in this wickedly fast moving world.
Texts encourage quick thoughts. You shoot off rapid-fire points that save time. Love it!
-What time are we meeting and where?
-6pm. Amphitheater. -Thx!
It’s so easy.
-Can you pick up paper towels on the way home?
-Sure! No prob.
Texting has proven to get the job done faster than a phone call. And emails? I feel that I can get much more accomplished working with a clearly outlined email containing points of action that need to get executed. How many times have you sat on the phone for a long forty-five minutes and walked away with three points that could have been taken care of in an email that would have taken less than five minutes to compose?
On one hand, stuff’s gettin’ done! But, certain situations call for in person communication and it seems to be freaking the crap out of people everywhere. Suddenly, they have no clue how they are going to have this “conversation” over the phone or in person. It’s like they then have to admit that their brains are only capable when their voice box is not being used. Come on! You mean I can’t just break up with this person in a nice text message? I have to look at their face as I crush them? #awkward
On the other hand, people are taking advantage of not having to see a person face to face and tend to get a little more courageous via these texts and emails. What I fear saying to you in person, I can more boldly say in writing… so I will!
“Didn’t she just call you every bad name in the book? I’m pretty she sure she verbally attacked you via text and in some cases that might be considered abuse,” I said to my dear my friend who is not quite getting along with someone. And then I went on, “But then she just wished you a happy birthday in person and told you she was happy for you and your new promotion?”
“Yup. Guess it’s easier to hide behind the screen than to say something to my face.”
It all leads me to question. Are we saying more of what we want to say? Or are we saying less? Are we being appropriate or inappropriate? Are we being strong? Or are we being cowards?
In my exercise of blogging for my most common reason (to figure stuff out), I came up with a list of the top “controversial” subjects sent via text rather than phone call or in person and I may have hinted as to my opinion on the matter.
Birthday Wishes to Special People
-With Facebook and smart phones, it makes it a lot easier to just send celebratory emoticons. But, if it’s someone in your top tier, call them! Leave a voicemail if they don’t answer.
Big Secrets
“Jake just told me he got fired. Don’t tell anyone!” – Not okay.
“Shhhh. I’m planning a surprise party for my wife. Can you help?” – Totally okay.
Sincere Apologies
“So sorry I couldn’t make it last night. Babysitter cancelled! Hope it was a great party!” Totally fine.
“I’ve been thinking about what you said and I’m sorry about our fight. I hope you don’t still want to break up with me.” Call instead!
Starting a Fight
“Hello?? Did you get my texts? Well, since you aren’t answering me, I’ll assume you are dead.”
This just says that you are desperate for attention.
Responding to Fight Starters
“Maybe if you weren’t such a weasel, I would answer you. Please assume I’m dead to you.”
Just don’t engage with mean or passive aggressive. It’s a waste of your time.
Condolences
No. Call first and then send a card.
Break-ups
You already know why. I mean I hope you do…
First Date Ask Out
Doesn’t it say a lot if he’s too nervous to call and ask you out for the first time?!
As always, I invite you to share with me your opinion. Text, comment or email is totally appropriate 😉
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