Cell phones have become a life-line for many of us. *Insert hand raise emoji here* I am beyond guilty of this. We often feel naked without our phones. When your phone is out of sight, your heart might beat a little faster... you search around frantically for it only to remember you're talking on it. We've all been guilty of this. It's like we are holding the world in our hands. We can gain access to almost anything and anyone in the world within seconds. While this is great, what happens when we can't put our cell phones away?
1. Relationships are Affected
Imagine that you are in the middle of a conversation with someone and they begin talking to someone else...that is basically the equivalence of texting mid-conversation. No one wants to fight for your attention. Try being present with the people you are with instead of picking up your phone to mindlessly scroll. We all have walked into or been a part of a room where everyone is on their phone... that is not actually classified as spending quality time with one another.
2. Social Phobia
When was the last time you talked to a stranger? Or that you didn't bring your phone to a social event in order to use it as your salvation during those moments you feel awkward? It's probably been awhile. Studies have shown that in public settings we often use our phones as "shields" to avoid interacting with the real people around us. Go talk to a stranger. Meet someone new. Even if you do feel awkward...your phone will be okay in your purse for a couple of hours.
3. Low Quality Conversations
A research study done by Virginia Tech University in 2014 showed that even just having your phone on the table during a conversation significantly affected the quality of that conversation. Conversations without cell phones present showed an increase in empathetic concern as well as depth. Because let's be honest, with our cell phones present we are at least somewhat disengaged.
4. Depression and Loneliness
Not only is constantly checking your phone an unhealthy habit, it can be a sign of depression.Those struggling with depression actually reported feeling more
depressed and alone after spending time on their smart phone and social
media. This data revealed that those addicted to their phone may be more subject to moodiness, materialism and temperamental behavior and are less able to focus on tasks.
5. It Consumes Your Life
Have you ever felt your phone vibrate in your pocket only to find no notification? You might have Phantom Vibration Syndrome. It's all out of habit. How many times a day do you check your phone despite there being no notifications? You feel like you have to reply to every text message, email, or Snapchat as soon as you get it... reality is: most messages are not that urgent or important. It can wait.
