As I write this blog post, I'm transported back to my days in an all-girls house, where the rules were strict but invaluable. It was there, years ago, that I began my journey into the world of etiquette blogging. Those formative years embedded in me the manners I am most grateful for today.
After a long hiatus, I find myself compelled to revisit the topic of etiquette, specifically focusing on communication in our modern, hyper-connected world. Recent experiences have inspired me to reflect on how we interact in an era dominated by smartphones and instant messaging.
The Challenge of Constant Connectivity
In a world where we're perpetually tethered to our devices, maintaining boundaries and practising good communication manners has become increasingly challenging. The expectation of immediate responses can be overwhelming, leading many of us to feel constantly "on call."
To manage this, I've adopted a personal practice: my phone is silenced from 9 PM to 9 AM. This simple boundary allows me to reclaim my time and signal to others that I'm not available during these hours. Additionally, I often keep my "seen" message feature turned off to avoid the pressure of immediate responses when I'm unable to engage fully.
The Importance of Responding
While setting boundaries is crucial, it's equally important to address a concerning trend I've noticed: the habit of not responding to messages at all. This behaviour often rationalised as a time-management strategy, can be perceived as discourteous and potentially damaging to relationships.
Ignoring messages entirely is not a courageous or effective communication strategy. It leaves the sender in limbo, unsure if their message was received or if they've somehow offended. This uncertainty can lead to unnecessary anxiety and misunderstandings.
Striking a Balance
So, how do we strike a balance between protecting our time and energy while still maintaining good communication etiquette? Here are a few suggestions:
Set clear expectations: Let your frequent contacts know about your communication preferences. If you have specific "off" hours, make them known.
Use auto-responders wisely: During busy periods, consider using an auto-response to acknowledge receipt of messages and set realistic response timeframes.
Prioritise and batch: Allocate specific times for responding to non-urgent messages. This allows you to be more focused and efficient.
Be honest: If you're overwhelmed or need time to think before responding, it's okay to say so. A quick "I've received your message and will get back to you soon" can go a long way.
Practice empathy: Remember that behind every message is a person seeking connection or information. A brief acknowledgement can mean a lot.
The Art of the Graceful Response
Even when we're busy, there's an art to responding gracefully. A well-crafted, timely response can strengthen relationships and demonstrate respect for others' time and feelings. It doesn't always require an immediate or lengthy reply; sometimes, a simple acknowledgement is sufficient.
In conclusion, as we navigate the complexities of digital communication, let's not forget the fundamental manners that make our interactions more pleasant and meaningful. By finding a balance between setting healthy boundaries and remaining responsive, we can cultivate a communication style that is both efficient and courteous.
The etiquette instilled in me during my school days continues to serve as a guiding light in this fast-paced digital world. I invite you to reflect on your communication habits. How can you enhance your digital manners while still protecting your well-being?
Remember, in a world where we can be connected to anyone at any time, the choice to communicate thoughtfully becomes even more significant. Let's make that choice count.
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