It isn’t an iPhone that people don’t like and actually, social media is a wonderful invention to connect thoughts, words, pictures and videos in real time.

It’s the lack of face-to-face interaction that is causing a society that even young people – addicted to digital devices – are increasingly concerned about.

Maybe that is you or someone you know.

When I can communicate anything I want with a tap of my digital device, I cannot appreciate if I have pleased you, disappointed or hurt you.

The lack of in-person feedback tends to make me more insensitive to those around me even as I get new digital tools and apps to “communicate” better.

So, what to do?

Give up the smartphone, avoid social media – drop out of the world as it now exists?

That is not necessary.

But there are a few things that can help maintain sensitivity to others that will not only enhance relationships but make digital contact more rewarding.

1. Think before sending.  Since we cannot see the reaction we are going to get put a little more thought into how your message may be received before sending.
2. Schedule face time for people who matter.  You know when you’re spending too much time communicating with digital tools.  When this happens, go direct.
3. Try FaceTime live video chats where you can see a person’s response to you in real time.  It helps to keep it sensitive to the impact of your words and thoughts.

Ask questions as often as you can.  Don’t always make “me” statements.  There is so much self-absorption in the world, we don’t want to be part of it.  Be sincerely interested in others – a good rule of thumb on our digital devices and in person.