Lately, my girlfriend's been complaining that I don't call her enough. But I <em>text message</em> her all day long. Is she onto something? Or should I send her a final "c u l8r"?

Expert Q+A

Lately, my girlfriend's been complaining that I don't call her enough. But I text message her all day long. Is she onto something? Or should I send her a final "c u l8r"?

ANSWER:

Though texting has its time and place (such as the pithy heads-up that you’re running five minutes late), it should be viewed as a supplement to -- not a replacement for -- live communication. No matter how fast and furious you are on your keypad, it’s only natural that your sweetie pie longs to hear your voice. Show her you’re way smarter than your cell’s T9 prediction and practice picking up your phone rather than just pecking at it.

About the Expert

Thomas P. Farley

Thomas P. Farley is a regular contributor to Men’s Life Today and writes frequently about careers and workplace behavior. A noted manners expert, he has been interviewed by all of the major television networks as well as The New York Times, USA Today, the Los Angeles Times, the Chicago Tribune and others on the subject of contemporary etiquette. He is also creator of the blog WhatMannersMost.com and the host of “New York Insider TV.” Follow him @mistermanners and @newyorkinsider.

Read more about: Mobile , Relationships

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