In today’s ever-evolving technological society, humanity has become increasingly dependent on technology and social media.

The arts of letter writing, face-to-face interaction, and even phone calls are quickly becoming lost forms of communication and texting is is now considered the norm for modern conservation. With the rise of the internet, social media, and text messaging, our culture has ceased valuing traditional or “real communication.” Texting is certainly a wonderful tool for communicating with people on a virtual level, but at some point, we have to put away our iPhones and start talking to the real people around us. Ultimately, I’m not telling you to throw your phones away or to limit your screen time, but I’m telling you to truly think about the ways in which texting affects your ability to communicate.

So, without further ado, here’s a list of some surefire texting "don’ts."

1. Don't text simply because it’s more convenient.

I completely understand the need to send a quick text now and again because it’s often the fastest way to get in touch with someone, and it only requires the click of a button. Taking the time to write out a letter or dial someone's number is simply about going the extra mile to show someone that you care about them. Never underestimate the power of a surprise phone call or visit.

2. Don't try to solve conflict via text.

A word from the wise, never initiate a conflict by sending a text because there is nothing worse in this word than a passive aggressive text. It might appear like trying to resolve something over text will make things less awkward or provide a quick-fix to a sticky situation, but fighting over text is simply a bad idea. When conflict isn’t handled face-to-face, it is much easier to for misinterpretations to occur, which can just cause the conflict to escalate in the long run. So next time you're irritated with someone, figure out a way to solve your problems without sending a text.

3. Don't text when you should talk.

First and foremost, communicating over text should be used as a supplement to face-to-face communication but can not function as a replacement. There are certain things in life that truly warrant and arguably require face-to-face communication. I’m sure most of you would agree that breaking up with someone, proposing to someone or asking someone out on a first date are some classic texting taboos, but beyond that there are so many more times when talking definitely trumps texting. I would argue that even beyond the most heinous texting offenses, it’s important to remember that texting is not equivalent to talking.

So before you reach for your phone, just don't.