Image from poka0059

As much as I embrace text messaging and the ease of communication that it brings to our lives, I still think there are times where phone calls and human interaction are necessary. There is a certain etiquette, if you will, that is becoming lost on our youth. Here are my Do’s and Don’ts. Please pass them on to your children.

DO:

• Text in public places where talking would bother others. For example: the metro or bus, restaurants, libraries, etc.
• Text quick notes or cute messages to friends or loved ones. Little ‘I Love You’ or ‘Good Luck Today!’ messages can go a long way to brighten someone’s day.
• Text at work. It’s quiet and quick. Text jokes between friends can get you through a rough day.
• Sext. Because it’s fun! Just always keep in mind what can come back to bite you.

DON’T:

• Text someone to ask them out on a date or break up with them.
• Text to show remorse or gratitude. Situations that involve you either apologizing or thanking someone totally deserve a call.
• Text while people are talking to you, while you’re viewing a presentation or in a meeting (duh!)
• Text while driving, walking, riding a bike, etc. Basically, don’t stare down at a screen if you need to see where you are going.

As a rule of thumb, if it takes you more than 2 sentences to type it, it probably warrants a call.

Yes, these are no-brainers. But I have noticed that when your phone is like another appendage, you don’t even realize when your use of it could affect others. If we were all more aware, we could actually end up being more polite. Just a thought.