Yesterday I was discussing this post with my friend Dennis Sanders, and he shared with me that author and blogger Seth Godin (also founder squidoo.com) stacks his phone in a pile with his friends' phones on the edge of the table when they meet up for food. Whoever looks at his or her phone first has to pay the bill. They are intentional about spending time together, free from the distraction that phones can often pose.
My challenge is this - the next social setting you find yourself in where food is involved, leave your phone hidden the entire time. Don't even take it out to Instagram the cuisine or check the time. Wear a wristwatch. Just try it once. Phones aren't necessarily the enemy of spending time with people, but they can clearly be a hindrance to engaging in a meaningful conversation. I'd like to try to live in the moment a little better in this way.
I've heard this talked about on a show I watch (The Chew. One of the hosts does this with their friends as well. I can't remember which host it was, but it's a great concept. I've also heard of parties where the host has everyone put their cell phones in a basket when they come in so you are focused on the people there with you. I think way too often we aren't really and truly "present" with those we are physically spending time with.
ReplyDeleteI think you're right. Plus, what are the kids thinking? Do they feel like we care more about what's online than about being there with them? Definitely something to think about. I'm the first one to say I love taking pictures and commenting and all that stuff but I get caught up in it sometimes and end up missing moments that can't be captured in a picture or a post.
ReplyDeleteI love Dennis Sanders, Seth Godin, and Heidi Gilson. And I love this thought! I have been guilty of this many times. I am going to suggest the stacking phones thing to my family :)
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