THE HUMAN TOUCH

I went out running yesterday. It was an awe inspiring and brilliant morning along the towpath with the late September sun glistening on the water as it moved slowly downstream. Just as I came to the bridge I noticed a guy who had got off his bike, preparing to carry it up the old stone steps and checking his phone, presumably looking at a map to help him on his way. Back in the day we would possibly have greeted each other. I may even have asked if I could help him carry the bike up or he may have asked if I knew the way to the place he was trying to find. But as it turns out, I was listening to some fairly heavy music on my head phones and he was engrossed on his mobile phone deciphering the map that would lead him to his destination. We passed without any interaction or acknowledgement.

As I ran on, I started thinking about the way things are changing. The computer and mobile phone are the most vital tools in our work tool box, of that there is no doubt. Go into any workplace and the evidence is all around you. All over the country we are communicating through texts, emails, phone calls, Zoom, Teams. Its just amazing what we can do. But along the way it is possible that we are losing the basic human instinct or maybe the need, to hug and touch and talk, to communicate in person, concerned that we might impose or scare or insult. The office was always a great place to learn skills off others. You could hear and see and feel how people formed positive and successful business relationships by listening to them and watching them. How do we learn these skills now? An online course….a webinar? Things are changing. The self help is all online.

According to The Lancet, Human interaction is a fundamental need for most people. It is a way to connect with others, to share experiences, build relationships and to learn. Research has shown that social interaction can have a positive impact on mental health and well-being . However, the COVID-19 pandemic has made it difficult for people to interact with each other in person, leading to increased feelings of loneliness and isolation. Fortunately, technology has provided alternative ways for people to connect with each other, such as video conferencing, social media, and online gaming . While these methods may not be as effective as in-person interaction, they can still provide a sense of community and help alleviate feelings of loneliness.

However, Psychology Today suggests that while technology has provided alternative ways for people to connect with each other, these methods may not be as effective as in-person interaction. In-person interaction allows for non-verbal cues, physical touch, and a deeper sense of connection. It can also foster empathy, understanding, and cooperation. Human interaction is important for our emotional and psychological well-being. It helps us feel connected, supported, and understood by others. While technology can supplement our need for connection, it is important to prioritize in-person interactions whenever possible.

Next time, maybe I will stop and ask if I can help and at the end of our interaction we may shake hands, or who knows, maybe even hug!