If you find yourself dreading phone calls as you age, it might be a sign of something deeper about your personality and lifestyle. Here are 11 reasons why this could be the case, backed by research and expert opinions.
You Prefer Face-to-Face Conversations: According to a study from Quality of Life Research, consistent face-to-face conversations are linked to better psychological health. People who dislike phone calls often value in-person interactions more, appreciating the quality time spent with friends and family.
Setting Boundaries with Your Phone: Practicing mindfulness offline and setting boundaries with your phone can be liberating. If you actively avoid phone calls, it might indicate a desire to protect your well-being and time, avoiding the pitfalls of constant phone usage.
Valuing Your Time: As you age, you might become more strict about following a routine that adds value to your life. Disliking phone calls could mean you prioritize your time for activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.
Outgrowing People-Pleasing Tendencies: Many people, especially women, were taught to be people-pleasers. If you hate phone calls and actively avoid them, it might be a sign that you've outgrown these tendencies and are finally putting your own needs first.
A Full Life: If your life is already full with household responsibilities, a career, and family needs, you might not have the time for lengthy phone calls. You might be more selective about picking up calls, even from loved ones.
Introversion: Introverted people often prefer online communication over in-person interactions due to their need for space to think and reflect. Phone calls can be equally dreadful for them, as they feel overwhelmed with crafting responses.
Phone Anxiety: Excessive smartphone use is linked to anxiety, stress, and depression. If you dislike unexpected phone calls, it might be a sign of phone anxiety, where the calls hold a lot of emotional weight in your routine.
Selective Socializing: If you're selective about the people you admit into your life and the emotional energy you spend on social interactions, you might dislike phone calls, especially from strangers or those you don't know well.
Disliking Small Talk: Small talk and superficial chatter are often impossible to ignore during phone calls. If you dislike small talk, you might decline calls to protect your energy and well-being.
Being More Present: Being present in your life and savoring its moments can enhance life satisfaction. Disliking phone calls could mean you appreciate being present more than ever, rather than being engrossed in your phone.
Aligned with Your Nervous System: Phone calls can be exhausting for your nervous system, especially when unexpected. If you dislike phone calls, it might indicate a deeper alignment with your nervous system, understanding the anxiety they can cause.
