A Text is Just a Text, right? So…the truth is that I’m a chronic over-thinker. Exhibit A: my texts and posts to…anyone, really. So what is digital communication anxiety? Allow me to explain.
I find myself looking down at every text I send and immediately debating whether I should add an exclamation point or a smiley face at the end. Or both. I feel that if I don’t, it might look like I’m in a grouchy mood or not enthusiastic enough with the person I’m talking to. And I can’t forget to throw in a “lol” or a “haha,” just so the recipient realizes I’m trying to keep the conversation lighthearted and fun.
I suppose I lay on the emoticons and lol’s pretty thick. But it’s not that I’m being insincere. Anytime I write these little smileys or expressions of sound, I am literally laughing to myself. Conversely, if I write a sad face or an “aww,” I genuinely frown or hear that sound in my mind. It’s the quickest way I know to express emotion—my version of a social cue that you’d normally get from seeing or hearing someone in person.
But…I Like Emojis
Digital communication anxiety is rough. I know not everyone texts like twelve-year-olds talk like me (yes, I know my texts may have come across as juvenile), but here’s the truth: I care immensely about how my message comes across. This actually parallels a simple philosophy I have on life—one of the greatest contributions to the world is a genuine smile. And since texting makes it nearly impossible to rely on body language or tone, well…bring on the smiley faces.
Don’t get me wrong. I love texting. It’s the best way for me to initiate conversation in between actually seeing someone face-to-face. Human connection isn’t dead; it’s just changing. People still need real conversation, real presence. But if I’m honest, I enjoy the evolving nature of social interaction through phones and the internet. It’s opened up an entirely new avenue of communication for me—one I didn’t have before. Hello to you, reader!
Just a disclaimer before the usual one–I wrote this a while back. Still feel the same. But I’ve grown a little–I use fewer emojis now! Less, but not none. I’m not that reformed. 😉 See? Heehee.
Some Topics for Discussion
What do you think? Do you like the direction social interaction is going? What are the pitfalls of social media and digital communication? And what are the pros? Do you struggle with digital communication anxiety? Leave a comment below ⬇️
A Lil’ Disclaimer about comments:
This blog is meant to be a springboard for discussions on some tough topics. It’s so easy to feel alone, but you’re not!
That hurt you feel? Someone knows it, too.
It doesn’t mean your hurt is less important. It means that you’ve got someone out there that is bound to understand. At least a little.
Things can get tricky. Not all people are kind. But most are just trying to survive.
It’s important to honor the nuances in what someone else is going through, too. Your experience is your own.
It’s complicated, yes.
I’m happy to encourage others to share their stories. Like on any other platform, vulnerability comes with risks. Don’t share unless you feel comfortable. You can count on me in the meantime to put it all out there. 😅
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