When you get to know me better, you will learn that, for the most part, I am not a fan of cell phones, BlackBerries or any other portable communication devices. What I detest even more is the use of these devices while on the golf course. My hat is off to those courses and clubs that ban the use of cell phones on the course or in the clubhouse.
Here is why I feel so strongly about this: More than anything else, these devices reinforce the self-absorption and selfishness that’s so prevalent today. How many times have you stood in line at a Starbucks, where the person in front of you is talking (loudly) on a cell phone, rather than paying the cashier? Or how about the people talking on their cell phones at the bookstore, on a plane, or at the grocery store, all incapable of carrying on a private conversation in a low voice and an out-of-the-way place?
But of all these rude intrusions, cell phone use on the golf course is what really causes the burn. We play golf to enjoy the game, be outdoors and be with people whose company we enjoy. The course is beautiful, quiet and relaxing. When the cell phone rings on the course, I can only ask myself…
… are these people so incompetent in their hiring that their staff has to contact them, even on the golf course, to approve or make a decision?
… are the people calling so insecure that they can’t make a decision on their own? What does it say about the management style of the company they work for?
… am I so boring that any potential e-mail message (including spam) or cell phone call is deemed more interesting than playing golf and carrying on a conversation with me?
Recently I was on a flight back to Chicago, and the person sitting next to me called 15 people (loudly) and responded to 15 voicemails by leaving 15 more voicemails. In short, nothing of substance was communicated.
I can’t prove it, but I think that we over-communicate because we aren’t sure we are right, so we seek constant communication to arrive at what we think is the right decision.
I am not naïve enough to think anything will change, but I admire those clubs and organizations that respect the sanctity and tranquility of the game by making sure that cell phones and BlackBerries are left in the car or the locker room. I doubt very seriously that people really mind, and my guess is that they enjoy the quiet, the game and the friendship. This is one trend that I hope takes off.
We will get to our messages in due time—and remember, trouble will always find us.
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