Fear of phones?

Does anyone else have a horror of talking on the phone? I have hated using the phone since I was a child, although it is hard to pin down exactly why I dislike it so much. I think my main difficulty is 'reading' how a conversation is going when I can't see the other person. I pause for too long, or jump in too soon, or struggle to pick up crucial info from their tone - is this a bad time to call? am I making myself clear?

I am currently going through a work-related nightmare scenario where I have been asked to make loads of phone calls - in a situation I have always previously handled by email - and I feel stressed and anxious about all the time: anticipating the calls, making the calls, reflecting on the calls. It is supposed to be making everyone feel encouraged, but if any of the hapless recipients are like me they will be thoroughly put off!

I have always thought this was just a random failure on my part, but now I am wondering whether it is integral to my nature.

Parents
  • I have days when I simply ignore the phone, it feels like too much of an intrusion on days when I just can't face interacting with people. Writing (here, WhatsApp, e-mail etc.) is much easier. I don't think I fear the phone as much as just not appreciating the sudden 'being forced to speak' situation - as if the person has just barged into my home and demanded my instant attention.  

Reply
  • I have days when I simply ignore the phone, it feels like too much of an intrusion on days when I just can't face interacting with people. Writing (here, WhatsApp, e-mail etc.) is much easier. I don't think I fear the phone as much as just not appreciating the sudden 'being forced to speak' situation - as if the person has just barged into my home and demanded my instant attention.  

Children
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