Communication in the cell phone age
The other day I was browsing for pictures for one of my posts. When I wrote the keywords communication and talking, most of the photos that I got back were people with cell phones or computers! I know that the result depends on the algorithms used on that particular application, but yet, it was choking me. It drove my mind to think about a simple way to show respect in the cell phone age.
In what world we live, that all the talking is through electronic devices! A lot of the communication in and out of workplaces is through emails and text messages. You look around, and all you see is people staring down at their devices. You can see it everywhere, while in line in the supermarket, during break time, and even while in a restaurant with friends or loved ones! We don’t talk anymore!
What I am describing here, happens before COVID. Now, virtual communication is a blessing. But I am referring here to what happened before and for sure will continue after the pandemic restrictions are lifted.
Respect for the people, listen and be present
That situation kept me thinking about the continuous improvement tenet of respect for the people and how much we need to apply it to our lives. I would be hypocritical if I don’t use the principles of CI to improve myself as a person. Listening is the most basic way to show respect. If we seek to listen to our co-workers daily, why not with family and friends? What happened with being present?
Be present, even when not in the same place
This year, the holiday season is going to be harder than ever. Many of us are going to be away from our families and friends. Some will have a hard time putting themself in the celebration mood because they lost family members through this year, or a job, or their life savings.
For all these reasons, it is important to reach out to family and friends. We can revive those things from the past like a postcard or a handwritten letter. We can send a care package full of love, simple things like a nice picture of better times, and some treats. But the ultimate gift will be the gift of being present. With some, you can be present through a simple phone conversation or any of those video applications. With those living with you, be present by dedicating time without phones, tablets, or any other electronic devices. Let’s practice the art of conversation and be present!
