In some situations, texts are the perfect method of communication, such as sending a note to say you’re running late, asking your partner a quick question while they’re at work, or checking what time your teen expects to come home without embarrassing them in front of their mates. But there are some times when it’s important not to text and instead pick up the phone or pay a visit.
Constantly using text to talk to loved ones can strain a relationship as it’s difficult to chat naturally via text. When you talk face-to-face, you can pick up on the other person’s expressions and body language to moderate your words accordingly. Even on the phone, you can generally tell whether someone is happy, angry or sarcastic in a way that’s more difficult by text.
Here are some occasions when it’s best not to rely on text.
Arguments Words can seem harsher when written down and it’s impossible to judge how upset the other person is when you cannot see or hear them. In addition, if you conduct an argument by text, there is a permanent record showing exactly what you said and your words could be used against you in the future.
Important dates Don’t text family members to wish them a happy birthday – pick up the phone, or even better go and see them.
Exciting news If you have exciting news to share, it’s a great excuse to actually ring or visit your loved ones. Sure, it’s quicker to send a text but special times should be treasured so make the extra effort and actually go to see them.
Bad news Nobody likes to be the bearer of bad news and it might seem easier to break bad news by text rather than an awkward conversation. But the nature of texts means they are usually too blunt to give bad news gently. And people often need emotional support when they receive bad news so even if you can’t meet them in person, at least pick up the phone.
Long-winded conversations If a topic is going backwards and forwards, it may be quicker all round to just pick up the phone and have an old-fashioned conversation.
When you’re with someone You know how annoying it is when someone you’re with seems more interested in their phone than in you. Don’t have a conversation by text with someone who isn’t there at the cost of ignoring friends you are physically with.
Non-essential Communication Sending a text is so cheap and easy, it’s tempting to text your partner with every little detail, especially when you are feeling bored. The problem is that if you text all day long, it can leave you with nothing to say to each other when you eventually meet up again in the evening. So keep your texts for the urgent messages, and save your other news and thoughts for quality conversations when you are together.
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