Conversation Archives - Catherine Johns

Communication, Conversation, Social Media

It’s a plague of the 2020s: Attention Infidelity

Attention infidelity? What’s that? A researcher from the American Enterprise Institute has been studying relationships among young people. David Cox has a book coming out about the crisis of human connection, Generation Uncoupled. He’s focused on young men and women and the many challenges they have forming the kinds of partnerships that seemed more natural for their parents and grandparents. Cox coined “attention infidelity” to describe “when a partner’s digital life intrudes on an in-person connection.”

How to Tell Them Just Enough

How to Tell Them Just Enough. You know I’m fascinated by words. I’m always happy to learn a new one. And this one particularly delighted me. Breviloquent. We can guess straight away what it means, can’t we? But just in case, Wordsmith tells us “breviloquent” is an adjective meaning: Using few words. It’s not just about keeping our talk short, however. The real issue isn’t clock time, it’s value.

Keep the Ball Rolling

Keep the Ball Rolling – There I was in the fitness center at my new home, thinking about you. You might know I’ve just moved out of my Chicago bungalow after 42 years (!) and into an apartment in a beautiful suburban building. I’m eager to get to know my new neighbors. That’s why I was so happy to chat with one of those neighbors when I got on the elliptical machine next to his. I could tell you a lot about Harold—when he moved in, where he lived before, where each of his kids lives, which part of the year he’s here and when he leaves for a warmer spot, how old he is, and … well, you get the idea. What do you suppose Harold knows about me after our chat on the elliptical machines? That’s right. Nothing. Harold forgot about taking turns.