The other night while my father and I were in the middle of a serious discussion at the dining table, my phone, as usual, kept beeping. Tweets were flowing in, Facebook tagging was in full action and I couldn’t help joining the digital discussion, when suddenly my father got up and left. His retirement made me realise my insolence and I ran after him to apologise.
He cheered up after briefly scolding me and dismissed the matter, but the episode made me realise the significance of spending quality time with one’s family members; for they are not going to be with us always.
Since then, I’m making an effort to spend more time with my family members, so that together we can build stronger family bonds. Here are a few things I’ve learnt so far; you, too, can experiment with these to cultivate happier and more satisfying family relationships.
Go screen-free
These days iPhones, MacBooks, iPad, etc. usually accompany us everywhere we go — be it shopping, an excursion trip or a family function — and they consume so much of our time that we feel quite exhausted when it comes to interacting with our loved ones. In other words, the virtual world has a high potential to take a serious toll on our relationships. The best way to curb this problem is to switch your devices for at least an hour or two every day. Instead of sending messages on Whatsapp or Skype to your cousins, go visit them if they live in the same city as you do.
Take time out to talk to that elderly lady in your neighbourhood you see every day, but are too busy with your phone to speak to. Take your mother out for a walk instead of tagging her on health tips on Facebook.
It’s important to disconnect digitally to connect in the real world. Relationships need your undivided attention, affection and care to flourish and strengthen. Associations fostered with love along with your valuable presence will always go a long way in life.
Eat together
It is explicable that many families don’t get time to eat their breakfasts and lunches together. Everyone has a different lifestyle and work schedule to maintain, but dinners and weekends present a perfect opportunity for everyone to assemble for an enjoyable, light-hearted meal together, which is in fact quite meaningful.