We Americans are talking less and less — almost 30% less over the last decade. The drop for youngsters is even more dramatic.
My grandson told me speaking is going the way of the horse and buggy, and he informed me using very few words.
This circumstance makes me almost speechless. Back in the day, we spoke over 16,000 words — now we barely muster up 12,000 words a day.
So why is this happening? The experts have answers: it’s a digital world, so who needs to talk? People are working from home, with no lunchtime chatter. We order most stuff online, whether it be a cowboy hat, a pepperoni pizza or a plane ticket.
Here’s a better question: Is this lack of spoken communication a good or bad thing?
Personally, I don’t like it a bit. Sure, there are a few of my acquaintances (Jack, Phillip and Rachel, you know who you are) who gab on forever without saying much. However, the vast majority of my friends are bright, entertaining and lovable folks who bring me great joy when they share stories, ideas and wisdom. We look each other in the eyes, even hug occasionally. It’s what makes me tick.
And, selfishly, I’ve always been a talker more than a key stroker.
Please, please continue to give me permission to speak. And I promise I will continue to listen.
We’ll all be rich