Not sure if it’s just me or perhaps my generation, but I find it unnecessary to call someone if I can simply text them, get a quick response and cut the formalities. Especially in these times when quick and easy does it, it can be hard to remember sometimes that while texting may be a faster, less bothersome approach, there are certain conversations and topics that are better had through other methods of communications—ones that involve audible conversation.
Here are my top seven conversations that should never happen through text:
1. Taking that next step
So you’re in a relationship, and you think it’s time to take that next step. Whatever this step may be—asking a friend on a date, looking to start a relationship, family, etc.—this kind of intimate moment should not be squandered through a flimsy text. Just imagine receiving a text like this: “Hey BTW... will u marry me? Gtg tho, in a meeting rn, ttyl ilysm.” Ridiculous, right? Preferably, make this moment as special as possible. Plan a good place and time to talk things through with your significant other. The only real exception to this would be a long distance relationship, in which case a phone call, Skype or FaceTime will do.
2. Letting go
On the flip side, there are breakups. Breakups are hard as it is. Sending a cold, inconsiderate breakup text is the worst thing you could ever do. Even if the relationship ends badly, at least show some decency. Be bold enough to have a mature final talk to end it. Explain yourself and hear what the other person has to say, as this is possibly the last talk you may ever have with him or her.
This concept also goes for adults who are considering leaving the house. Don’t just up and leave. Have a face-to-face with everyone in the household whom your decision will affect. I mean how many times have we heard stories of a parent just leaving the household and leaving their family no explanation whatsoever? The scars from that experience hurt for a lifetime, especially when there are innocent little ones involved.
3. Help!
No one goes through life without ever needing a helping hand. However, when the time does arise that you are in need of help or even a simple favor, it is usually better to talk verbally.Ask for help with dignity. Let the person know exactly what it is you are asking of them. This way if they have questions, you will be able to clarify because, as we all know, texting can be very vague and misleading.Texting someone in this case may also seem shallow and insincere.
4. $$$$$$
One specific favor, one that especially we broke college students tend to ask for is money. This kind of request is obviously a more serious one, so it is always better to either call or talk in person when asking for money or with any kind of business transaction.
And of course, we college students usually just text our parents or grandparents like “Need some money bad, Mom please.” However, this is not a good habit. (Note to self!)
5. Death
Life is truly a blessing, but as we know, death is also a part of life. This kind of news is extremely sensitive, especially to close friends or family of someone who has passed. Never and I mean never break this kind of sensitive information to someone through a measly text. That approach may come off as insensitive and inconsiderate. Preferably, have this conversation face to face so that you can actually be a shoulder to cry on, as the person will most likely be needing that after hearing the news.
6. Teamwork
Working with a group on a project can be quite a challenge, with everyone having their own busy life. However, when it comes to a team task, it is probably best to find a common time and either meet face to face or Skype a group conference to discuss goals, figure out who is doing what and get things situated. Group chats do have their place, I must admit, but if we’re honest, who—after a busy day, filled mostly with your phone blowing up at the wrong times because of the group chat—actually sits there and reads the whole chat from the time they were away? Yeah, me neither. Verbal communication works much better for a group effort because you can hear what everyone has to say, know exactly what is expected, and come to clearer decisions.
7. Resolution
In life, there will always be conflicts, setbacks and issues that involve other people. I am no guidance counselor, but I can tell you that probably the worst way you could try to resolve an issue would be through text. First of all, if there has already been friction between you and another person, you are most likely already upset. And we all know that texting when you are upset may lead to all manner of sarcasm, the throwing of shade, and bringing up irrelevant things, like mispellings, which leads to insulting intelligence and other issues. With conflict resolution, texting not only wastes your time but it does not resolve the issue and on top of that, the convo might get pretty nasty. Instead, talk audibly through your problems with the other person, explain yourself, hear their views, address the actual problem and come to a resolve. Always be an adult about your problems and solve them with class, through verbal communication like a human being.