When messages – both typed and voice – can be exchanged instantaneously, warmth and sincerity are at risk of disappearing. Sadly, these are the two things that make communicating with one another feel so fulfilling.

Words on a screen, especially from people you barely know, can come across as cold and impersonal. Voice messages – even from your contacts – are geared towards efficiency. Why type/tap when you can yak a phrase or two to get your point across?

Messaging is easy, but it is devoid of true interaction (Image: kuu akura, Unsplash)

Convenience comes at a cost

We're all managing our time (and mana) so that we have energy to still do whatever we love to do at the end of the workday. We all take shortcuts. But when it comes to communicating, the easy way isn't always the best way.

The reason we meet our friends in person is because nothing beats being physically present. Face-to-face interactions mean we get nuances in conversations.

When we're with friends, the connection feels genuine because we're unconsciously reading body language and facial expressions. They reinforce whatever our friends are telling us. Conversely, body language also gives away when someone is lying to us.

In person, you can feel someone's warmth. Or if they're not in a good mood, you can still sense the sincerity in the points they're trying to make. Either way, these face-to-face interactions are a welcome respite from staring at a person's name on a screen while watching or waiting for new lines of text appear.

(Image: Maria Lin Kim, Unsplash)

Conveying sincerity

Digitalisation has made us search for sincerity. Be it in words or actions, we're increasingly seeking offline human connections. 'Analogue' interactions are becoming precious – even to younger generations used to the instantaneousness of the always on, always connected world. 
 
Instead of messaging your colleague who sits at the other end of the office, why not walk over to disturb them? Play games in person rather than online. Don't just stay home streaming shows while doomscrolling; arrange to meet your friends and do some catching-up in person.

Speaking of which, if you want to ask people to a social gathering, invite them properly. Don't send a calendar invite unless you're organising a business meeting. A short e-mail or  message that declares your intentions will clearly convey warmth and sincerity, which are becoming a rare commodity these days.

– Jeremy

(Main image: Brett Jordan, Unsplash)