I love modern means of communication. I don’t understand how to use all of it that is available, but I use the technology I do have quite extensively. With rare exception though, I don’t feel the need to immediately answer every communication request that comes my way. Technology is supposed to be a tool that enhances life. If I’m not careful, it controls me rather than me controlling it.
I have three phone numbers (home, home office, and cell)—all of which ring throughout the day. I don’t answer the home phone when I’m working, and sometimes I just let the machine pick up calls on my home phone when I’m busy after hours. I often don’t answer my cell phone if I’m working. And at times, I don’t take personal calls on my work phone—depending upon my work load. I have several e-mail addresses and instant message screen names. I don’t always respond immediately to e-mail or instant messages either.
I’m not anti-social. In fact, I’m trying to be more social now than I’ve ever been. But if I answer every gadget that rings or dings for my attention, I’ll never get anything done. I don’t expect others to answer my calls, e-mails, or instant messages right away for the same reason. I think all of us would feel a little less stress if we just learned to let the gadgets ring once in a while.
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