I hate to sound like your homeroom teacher, but

the time is now and put your phone away.

Turns out teachers might have been onto something . . .

Have you ever been on the phone with someone and then have to step into an elevator or go into an underground parking garage?

No, just me?

This is an actual everyday occurrence for me. I’m known to drive around my neighborhood several times or park by a nearby park just so I can finish up a call.

Why?

Because the minute I enter the garage my connection gets spotty. I begin to only hear bits and pieces of what is said. I know I might miss something crucial. It is annoying to have to ask someone to repeat themselves because of the connection disruptions. Surely, it is just as annoying for the other person. Imagine just hearing bits and pieces of a sentence and then trying to play “fill-in-the-blank” for the rest of the conversation. Overall, it is frustrating for both parties.

Trying to have a phone conversation in an underground garage is like trying to connect with someone in person who allows themselves to be distracted by their phone. Outwardly, you are doing what is required to facilitate conversation but the actual connection is spotty. If you are lucky, you are left with a general idea of what is going on, but know deep down inside that it could have gone a lot better.

This week on Level 33, I explore “technoference” , “absent presence”, and “phone snubbing”. All of which help describe the disconnection caused by phone use in the presence of friends and loved ones.

With gratitude,

Kim

PS. Know someone that would want to have coffee with us?