Put Your Phone Away

Would you rather be friends with an object or a person? It’s a silly question, isn’t it? But you might be surprised if you led a tour of 50 or more people across the U.S. for two weeks, which we’ve done many times. Those who left their smartphones and tablets behind left the experience with new friends. The people who couldn’t live without social media, emails and texts didn’t. Their objects were more important than connecting with people. It’s as simple as that.

You’ve seen it in restaurants, on public transportation, at work and just walking down the street. Some people seem to be glued to their phones. Is that what makes them happy? Not according to several studies. One such study found that having strong relationships with people cut the risk of premature death in half. At the other end of the spectrum, people experiencing loneliness and social isolation, i.e., those bonding with their technology rather than human beings, tend to suffer from many health issues, including heart disease, high blood pressure and substance abuse.

Friends often introduce others to new interests and challenges, and they help their buddies maintain goals, such as dieting or sports achievements or completing projects. Good friends act as sounding boards, which can relieve stress, and offer a shoulder to cry on. They share fun and laughs, which also can lead to longevity. When you’re on your deathbed, will you want your iPhone or your loved ones?

Sometimes we just want to shake people, particularly young people, and say, “What are you doing?” Maybe we’re on a trail in Yosemite National Park, one of the most beautiful places on earth. Or perhaps we’re meandering down the scenic California coast or checking out the famous Painted Ladies, the Victorian and Edwardians houses in San Francisco, that draw visitors from around the world. Put your phone away. Look. Absorb. Think. Feel. Live.