Always Connected, But Never Connecting

Are couples really having dinner together if they’re both absorbed in their phones? Do movie theaters really need to threaten us with removal for using our phones during the show?

That can’t be good… can it?

And for 35% of us, our smartphone is our first thought when we wake up in the morning. Only 10% said they first thought of their spouse or significant other. But we love our families more than our phones. Don’t we?

1. Set some “gadget-free” hours. Let yourself “detox” from technology on a daily basis. Unless it’s an urgent call from a loved one, it can wait a couple of hours… can’t it?
2. Engage with other humans. Using your phone to catch up on Facebook or post a few pictures is a fine way to pass a few minutes at the airport. But when you’re home with your family, make it a point to engage with them. Be with people. Pet the dog. Go for a walk. Breathe.
3. Get to know your neighbors. When was the last time you sat on your front porch or a park bench without your phone? Chances are, you’ll meet more of your neighbors. And knowing your neighbors makes your community happier, safer, and more connected.

Let’s not allow technology to keep us from the original social media: human interaction. Believe it or not, it won’t kill you to put your phone down for a while. You won’t miss the next big thing by taking a two-hour break. Make real people a priority, and see how your life and community can improve.