Do you share your "Emotions" or "Emoji"

Technology has overtaken our lives much faster than we think that the meaning of the word 'chat' is no longer a face-to-face conversation but a text in social media apps like Insta/FB/Snapchat/WhatsApp. Emotions are shared as emoji on social media. Let me ask this, how many of you analyze your average screen time? On a practical day, if you spend five hours on your phone, aside from sleep, personal hygiene, and food, you have spent 40 - 50% of your time on it.

Even though technology has widened our access to learning, fun, and even the world within a small gadget with everything just a click away, what has it taken from us? It's not the technology's fault, but ours that it's taken away the human element. We should use technology for learning and advancement as an acceptable means of communication, but we should know when to use it and when not to. In a simple real-life situation where you're dissatisfied with your loved one, you might say "I don't want to talk to you?" but you actually mean the exact opposite. The body language and tone of your voice convey, "Please talk to me. I really look forward to it.". How often has that happened to you? So, in this internet world of texting, how often have you got caught in a misunderstanding that has made things worse?

We all know that communication is a combination of verbal and non-verbal expression, and texting takes away the most important part of the message that is best understood by tone and body language.  The impact is worse in very personal relationships since texting has stolen the essence of reassurance given by touch & feel.

Sometimes one uses texting as a way of avoiding conflict and not facing a situation that makes them uncomfortable. It happens to everyone, and how often has it caused or solved a problem? Most often, it will delay a problem until a later date, which may increase its magnitude or even create or magnify an issue. One principle that has worked best for me is having open honest face-to-face communication. Despite how bitter the truth might be, it is better to face it because eventually, it will be revealed. By being aware, you have assessed all outcomes and made your decision. I believe it is better to be prepared than to be surprised. Talking about your issues is so much better than texting. Having an uncomfortable conversation face-to-face takes courage, but it is always better than the cowardly act of texting. 

Do you measure your screen time? And if you do not, then it's time you start doing it and mending your ways to keep it old-school, personal, and human. We are humans and conveying our emotions the right way and expressing them with body language, tone, and touch are key to our survival. So let us not forget to give the personal touch which makes a difference in our lives and that of our near and dear ones. So, what are you waiting for? If you agree with this blog post, then go share your coffee not just as an emoji and make memorable moments as we are humans and we are better than AIs.