Telephone booths are becoming obsolete in the world, and I understand why. Technology now allows us to pretty much make our calls from any place, at any time. There seems to be very little reason to not just dial from where you are, but that is not always right, and it's completely rude. It's rude to the person on the other line you are speaking with, and it's blatantly disrespectful of those around you.
Multitasking has been taken to new heights with technology, but I'm not sensing that we are making a real connection. Contrary to what you may think, the world is not your personal telephone booth and not everyone is interested in hearing your call. It's time to make this modern convenience one that is convenient for everyone.
Try following these suggestions, regardless of the nature of your call. It will take stress off of you, the person on the other end, as well as those within close proximity who don't need to hear it.
1. Be mindful of your surroundings and take your business to a private area where you will not be disturbed and won't disturb others. You will be making a helpful connection on the phone and also with those around you. Why encourage the unpleasant energy directed at you by strangers who are justifiably upset with you for not being thoughtful? You do not own the public space within which you are freely taking up residence for your call.
2. Save sensitive topics like disease, death and rage for when you are not multitasking! One only has to look at how we "share" on our mobile devices to see that everyone is picking up negative energy from everyone simply by overhearing a conversation. So, if the topic is one of the above, you should try to visit to share real compassion in person rather than raising your voice in the supermarket, parking lot, or nail salon for all to hear. Your caller doesn't get your true attention and details are missed because everyone and everything around you will distract you.
3. Dining in a restaurant is not permission to sit in a booth or at a table placing calls. If your phone rings and it's an emergency, take it outside in private. Better yet, think twice before answering. Respecting your mealtime will be beneficial to your digestion, not to mention that of those unfortunate enough to be within earshot.
4. Don't talk while walking, as that is not multitasking. That is what many think it is, but in actuality it sends the message that the call is not important enough to you to give it your full attention. It's easy to miss words and details on a public street.
5. Don't use your speakerphone in public. Period. (I don't care if you are a Real Housewife, it's offensive.)
These simple suggestions can quickly become a healthy habit and you will find yourself in better spirits and more enlightened in your exchanges. You will also be spared anger from people who don't appreciate your intrusion. Remember, there will come a time when you are on the other end of this experience and are the person forced to eavesdrop and wishing otherwise. By creating a pattern of personal mobile phone etiquette, you will be fully present and save yourself from a great many stressful experiences.