We get it, we are so connected to each other that we carry around phones in our pockets that are always digitally connected to other people. But did you know that phone is actually impacting the way you connect with people and dividing your attention?

Sherry Turkle in the New York Times writes, "Studies of conversation both in the laboratory and in natural settings show that when two people are talking, the mere presence of a phone on a table between them or in the periphery of their vision changes both what they talk about and the degree of connection they feel. People keep the conversation on topics where they won't mind being interrupted. They don't feel as invested in each other. Even a silent phone disconnects us."

Her resolution: stop Googling and start talking. Because, "it is in this type of conversation—where we learn to make eye contact, to become aware of another person's posture and tone, to comfort one another and respectfully challenge one another—that empathy and intimacy flourish. In these conversations, we learn who we are."

Possible Preaching Angle:

When was the last time you had a face-to-face conversation with someone? It is through this talking that we can overcome the failed connections of the digital world.

Source:

Sherry Turkle, “Stop Googling. Let’s Talk,” The New York Times (9-26-15)