I hate conversing on a cell phone, so I got some bluetooth headphones (the earmuff kind, not the stick-it-in-your-earhole kind) with a built-in mic, and now phone calls are much more enjoyable.
So enjoyable, in fact, that I am CALLING PEOPLE ON THE PHONE FOR FUN which is a thing I haven't done much in recent years. I'm learning that I need to begin these conversations with, "Everything is okay, no one has died, I'm literally just calling because I like you."
Social media is becoming a bigger heap of white nationalist garbage each day, but I think we all needed it to transparently suck so that we could finally move on. Instead of scrolling, the first thing I check on my phone in the morning is what new podcasts have been released. I'm also starting to follow more newsletters of specific people who share thoughtful content. There is nothing to be gained from being inundated with hate by people who feed off our shock.
So, I'm pretty pumped for connecting more deeply with those in my inner circle and continuing to read and listen to smart people who give me a better understanding of the world, including local context. Spending time in these spaces motivates me to take action in impactful ways.
I think finding real community by truly connecting with friends, family and like-minded humans, instead of being tricked into thinking we're connecting by following each other on social media, is one of the most impactful things we can do. It's our lack of this community that makes us susceptible to the influence of conspiracy theorists and an us/them mentality. Don't underestimate the feeling of community your delulu high school friend is finding in alt-right and "wellness" spaces.
What I'm saying is start an a cappella group, call your friends, and listen to Vibe Check pod. There, I fixed everything.
