When it comes to making phone calls, I’d rather endure the discomfort of a thousand paper cuts or spend an hour in a crowded elevator. That’s how much I dislike it. Thankfully, technology has provided us with the gift of online problem-solving and texting, or I might never muster the courage to order food or chat with friends. Sound familiar? If so, you’ll likely resonate with the following:
- A mistake on your credit card statement sends you into a tizzy, as it means confronting the dreaded phone call. If the error is small enough, you might even choose to ignore it rather than face the anxiety.
- Texting is the best innovation since sliced bread, and possibly even better than fire and the wheel.
- You believe your voice resembles that of a cartoon character, and no amount of reassurance can change your mind.
- After a phone call, you often can’t recall a single word that was exchanged.
- Your medical, grooming, and even pet appointments are all a year overdue—not as a form of protest, but because it took you months just to gather the courage to dial the office.
- Business calls can leave you feeling mentally drained, requiring a period of recovery that might involve anything from meditation to standing in front of an open freezer door.
- The introduction of online pizza ordering felt like a life-changing moment, akin to reaching enlightenment.
- You harbor an intense dislike for telemarketers that far exceeds what most people feel. To you, they’re almost as bad as those who mistreat animals.
- At least once, you’ve taken a shot of liquor before making a call.
- You avoid answering the phone, even for loved ones, preferring to return their call when you’re mentally prepared.
- You once thought about a career in sales, but then you had a good laugh at the idea.
- You often forget that the person on the other end can’t see your nods or shakes of the head, leading to awkward apologies they don’t quite understand.
- Holding is not so bad, as it means you don’t have to engage in conversation.
- You find automated customer service systems somewhat comforting, even if they prolong the resolution of your issue. At least you don’t have to talk to anyone.
- Starting a conversation with “hello” is the most challenging part. How much small talk is required? Should you ask about their kids, even if you can’t remember their names? Is it acceptable to mention the weather?
- On the flip side, saying goodbye can be equally confusing. How many “thank yous” are required? Do we really need to say “bye” multiple times? It often feels like you keep chatting until the conversation fizzles out.
- No matter who you’re speaking to, you always accidentally end with “I love you” right before hanging up.
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For a deeper dive into navigating the challenges of phone anxiety and beyond, feel free to explore this article.
Summary
Navigating phone anxiety can be an overwhelming experience filled with a series of relatable challenges. From avoiding phone calls to dreading small talk, many people share the struggle of making calls. Thankfully, technology provides alternatives that can lessen the stress associated with traditional communication.