Today over 25 Snapchats will be sent, one call will be made, 73 texts will be sent, and Instagram will be checked twelve times on my phone. We're at a point with technology where it can completely consume us and take us away from those and what is around us. From Snapchatting proof of catching a fish to posting on Facebook about the hard times a goodbye was, we use our phones. All the time. Phones are great to have, but so are actual human connections and interactions. When we're with our phones they disconnect us from the people we're with. It's time to disconnect the phones to connect back with our friends, family, and the guy walking past you on the street. Here's how we can do this.
1. Respect the driver
Texting and driving is dangerous anyway and when the driver shouldn't be on their phone, neither should you! Respect your driver and avoid using your phone (unless for directions or plan making) so they don't feel so secluded or have to listen to silence as you scroll through Snapchat stories.
2. Ditch the charger
When heading out to see people, don't bring your phone charger. It makes you reevaluate what's really important and worth using battery life for. Also by doing this, you aren't stationed by an outlet in the wall.
3. Play the phone stacking game at meals
Next time you go out to dinner, place all your phones in a stack in the middle of the table! Any person who grabs their phone before the checks arrive has to pay for everything. This creates a game and also a way to force conversation onto your group and keep everyone engaged.
4. Keep your phone in the car
Recently I was with people going to dinner, and when we got there one of my friends tossed her phone back in the car and about half of us were amazed because we couldn't grasp the simple concept of not needing our phones. Turns out you don't have to send Snapchats to everyone during your meals!
5. Find other hobbies
I'm about 93 percent sure creating the perfect Instagram caption or tweet counts as a hobby. That being said, find something else to do with companions. Go learn to paint, take a hike at the local national park, or try a new sport. Whatever it is, put your phone down so you can focus!
6. Pocket your phone when walking
Whenever you are leaving class, walking to your car, or strolling through the downtown streets resist the urge to pull your phone out and play on it or check it. Take this time to look around you! Notice the trees, the street signs, the uneven brick you about tripped on, and architecture. Greet the dogs you pass on the street, if you're nice to their owner they just might let you pet their dog.
7. Silence your phone
I'm not tempted to grab my phone if I don't know it's going off. By having your phone silenced, not only will people not be annoyed with you at restaurants if your phone goes off, but you also won't feel the need to check your phone the second you think it vibrated.
So throw your phone in the car! Tell stories of freshman year in college instead of posting Snapchat stories of your food. Notice the unnoticed on the street. Disconnect to connect, my friends.
