I luckily am not so addicted that I know how many likes I got for that. But each one of those likes seems like it is a connection between me and the other person. Many people feel accomplished or fulfilled by the number of “likes” they got. But the truth is those are counterfeit connections. They do not build a relationship or help us to feel connected. Online games are a little different; they do bring some interaction and can bring a degree of relationship building. Every Sunday night me and my brothers get on and play “Rocket League.” We are all in a chat room and we can talk a lot of it is banter about the game. But we get a piece here and there about what each other is doing and how things are going for them. We all live far from each other and without this we only talked about once per year. Even though games are not my thing I like “being” with my brothers and doing this with them. (Even though I am horrible at the game.)

How many times when we are with family do we check our phones. We use false connections when we have real ones right in front of her. Each time we check our phone we lose at least 20 seconds of time with the family. If the notifications are coming in every min or so then we can be out of time with our family more than we can be in. Because these electronic experiences are false connections they leave us without a real feeling of connection. But what is crazy is we continually look to them for that connection even though it doesn’t give us one. We will be happiest if we unplug. We leave our phone, turn it off, or put it on airplane or silent mode. Because even if we get past the distraction people around us will be distracted. Like my Buddy at lunch.

If answering every notification or phone call no matter when, is what you do then your significant other, and family members feel like they don’t matter that they don’t know you. You don’t have a relationship with them. The way to get a relationship is to be with them without interruptions. Actually connect by discussing how things are really going, how you are feeling and what you like and want tomorrow. Having real conversations. Over time it will make you feel connected and accepted.

I am offering a free gift to my listeners tonight. It is called “One Year of Dating to a Better Relationship.”  To get your free gift just email me with the title in the subject line. [email protected]

Now I want to let you know how much I appreciate each of you spending your time with me today. I think of you each day. I get you. You are a big part of my life and I’m glad you are here. If this message has been helpful please share it with a friend. If you haven't yet, do yourself  and me a favor and subscribe to this channel. Also, check out the show notes there will be a spot to click and set up a time so we can discuss how you can use these tools and others to get your amazing life!