Why You Should Put Away Your Phone During Dinner with Friends or Family
Whether you are at a casual dinner with friends or a formal gathering with family, putting away your cell phone is crucial for maintaining proper table manners and social etiquette. By doing so, you show respect for the people you are spending time with and ensure that the conversation stays engaged and meaningful. Here are a few reasons why putting your phone away is the best choice.
Respecting Others at the Table
According to traditional and modern manners, it is rude to keep your phone on during a meal. If you are not genuinely interested in socializing, you should decline the invitation. At my house, we have a simple rule: all phones are turned off during dinner. The purpose is to share a meal and conversation, not private phone calls. By having your phone on the table, you are essentially telling everyone else that your call is more important than their presence.
Creating Family Time
If you are a parent or a partner, enforcing this rule can often help create quality family time. Even in a relationship, designated phone-free periods can enhance communication and bonding. For instance, I would suggest turning off phones for at least half an hour during meals to have meaningful interactions with loved ones. This simple act can help strengthen relationships and create lasting memories.
Proper Etiquette Guidelines
The use of phones during meals should be a no-brainer. It is already expected that in the new manners and etiquette books, phones should be turned off at the dinner table. Unless you are an on-call surgeon with the phone in your pocket on vibrate, it is not appropriate to keep it on the table. The phone should be used only if it is an emergency or if you have a genuine need, such as a spouse in hospital or a very serious situation.
The Impacts of Constant Phone Glances
Consistently checking your phone during a meal is a clear sign of disrespect towards the people around you. You're essentially shouting that they are less important than the incoming call or notification. This habit can lead to a negative perception of your relationships and can even discourage others from wanting to spend time with you. It is important to give your full attention to your guests, as they have taken the time to be with you.
Observing and Learning from Others
The example of a relative who ignored visitors to focus on phone calls can be a powerful lesson. I made several trips out of state to cater cakes for family members, but the relative who hired me seemed more interested in her daughter's phone conversations than with me. This experience led to reevaluating schedules and relationships. Taking the time to engage in a real conversation and show genuine interest can lead to a much more rewarding and enriching experience for everyone involved.
Final Thoughts
In today's age of constant connectivity, it can be challenging to disconnect. However, it's crucial to remember that true connection and meaningful relationships require our full attention. Beverley, a parent friend, emphasizes the importance of taking breaks from technology during meals. By ensuring that your phone is off and away from the table, you create an environment where everyone can enjoy the company of one another fully. This not only enhances the experience of the meal but also strengthens the bonds between you and your loved ones.
By putting away your phone during dinner, you demonstrate respect, foster family time, follow proper etiquette guidelines, and show genuine interest in the people you are spending time with. It may take some getting used to, but the benefits are well worth it.