Put The Phone Away

As I watched the ball drop in Times Square to ring in the New Year, one thing really stood out. As they panned the crowd I saw a multitude of people taking "selfies" and not engaging with their fellow revelers. A truly sad statement on our society today.

It got me thinking about the lack of socialization in "social" situations. Perhaps we need some guidelines to remind us of when we should put our phones aside, and actually talk, or listen, to each other. So, here it goes..........

Put the phone away if you are:

1. At your dinner table.
2. In a restaurant.
3. In a store.
4. Spending time your children.
5. Spending time with your spouse or significant other.
6. At a meeting, seminar or conference.
7. At work.
8. At school.
9. In church.
10. At any social gathering.

And if you are walking down the street, pick your head up and watch where you're going. Who knows who you might see if you are making eye contact?

I know that our phones are much more than a phone today, and very helpful in many ways. They give us a sense of security as we travel, and allow us access to any information we might need. However, we should not become so attached that we lose the closeness and face-to-face communication with those around us. Nobody in our lives should feel they come in second place to our electronic devices.

The benefits of setting the phone aside include closer relationships with our loved ones, less stress, and the possibility of meeting some amazing people. All of this will lead to a healthier, happier life.