January 23, 2012

Tip-a-Week

Tip:   Stop Tyranny of Texting

Problem:

Texting or phoning during mealtimes destroys conversation. They are disruptive and rude. These behaviors enrage many people (like parents and friends) and fray important relationships.

Solution tips:

1.  Cellphone stacking. By agreement, those sitting down for a restaurant dinner place their cell phones in the center of the table and must not touch theirs during the meal. They also agree that the first person who does so pays the bill for everyone. Lively interpersonal conversation follows. (Exceptions can include physicians and other professionals on call for emergencies.)

The key here is the group members agreeing. One person can suggest, but not impose this rule. 

2.  When gathered around the family table for meals, cellphones and iPads and any other wireless devices like iPods with earplugs are turned off and placed in a basket until the end of the meal. No one is allowed to get up and grab their electronic disrupter at these times. To encourage more interesting talk, use one of many quality products like "The Art of Conversation: 300 Fascinating Conversation Starters for All Ages" available at Amazon.com. (Whatever you parents do, don't ask the same stale question "What did you learn in school today?")

Ideally, all family members would agree to this. If not, parents must set the rules.

Thank you for subscribing and reading this tip!

Until next week's tip,

Loren