Gadgets Are Useful, But ...

30 November 1999

Today I am going to have a chat about technology, you know, gadgets. Those horrible things that seem to run our lives these days, but succeed in making life hell for everyone else.

I am talking about a specific incident which set off my train of thought today. I was at my local Screwfix this morning and a fellow builder was in front of me in the queue. I would say that builders are often thought of as easy going, salt of the earth types and to be honest most are. But this guy happened to be on his mobile while in the queue, something which seemed to transform his personality.

Fair enough, your mobile rings, you don't want to miss the call, so you step out of the queue take your call and then get back to what you were doing. But could this guy waste his precious time by doing this? Oh no! Instead he remained in the queue and carried on a very loud and pointless conversation regarding measurements. He got to the front of the queue, put his slip down with what he wanted and completely ignored the girl behind the counter.

She did her job, got his item, he handed over his card and paid for it, all the while carrying on his conversation. Not once did he acknowledge the poor girl serving him. He then simply grabbed his item and walked away. Not even a thank you!

The funny thing about this story is that I was next to be served and as I put my card in the machine, I noticed his was still there. So now he has no access to money and chances are he won't even remember where he left it. But if he does remember, guess who he will blame? Not himself for being an ignorant, arrogant idiot, but the girl who was just trying to do her job to the best of her ability.

So this story set me off today. I got to thinking about all the time we waste checking emails, updating our profiles or texting for no good reason. When we all know that having a simple conversation with someone will be loads quicker and more enjoyable. Do people really think they are more important because they have 300 “friends” on Facebook?

Yes, I use the computer for work and my phone to keep in touch while I am on site. But I am not tied to the blasted thing. I do remember how to use a phone-box if necessary. But to be honest, back in the day before mobiles, we simply waited until we got home. It was simple.

Yes, gadgets for work are useful. Stud finders and laser beams have improved my life. But I could easily do without my mates at the pub texting their girlfriends while I am having a beer with them. It is just plain rude.

So here are my rules for those who are tied to their gadgets:

• Never answer your phone while you are eating dinner at my house.
• Turn off your silly ringtones and grow up.
• If you want to speak to me, do so and don't text me – I won't reply.
• Put down your phone while you are driving, or I might do something I regret.
• Nothing is more important than the person in front of you.

It is pretty simple and something people seem to have lost touch with. Maybe I am old fashioned, but it hasn't held me back. Not yet anyway!