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	<title>connections Archives - My blog</title>
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		<title>I Love My Tech Tools—But Let’s Keep Them in Perspective</title>
		<link>https://garyfretwell.com/productivity-and-personal-development-coaching/i-love-my-tech-tools-but-lets-keep-them-in-perspective/</link>
					<comments>https://garyfretwell.com/productivity-and-personal-development-coaching/i-love-my-tech-tools-but-lets-keep-them-in-perspective/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Gary Fretwell]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 31 Mar 2025 13:58:40 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Change]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Communications]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Productivity and Personal Development​]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Relationships]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Taking Action]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[connections]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[productivity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[real life]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tech]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tools]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://garyfretwell.com/?p=5143</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>I’ll admit it—I enjoy my tech gadgets. My iPad is great for reading, my phone keeps me in touch with [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://garyfretwell.com/productivity-and-personal-development-coaching/i-love-my-tech-tools-but-lets-keep-them-in-perspective/">I Love My Tech Tools—But Let’s Keep Them in Perspective</a> appeared first on <a href="https://garyfretwell.com">My blog</a>.</p>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">I’ll admit it—I enjoy my tech gadgets. My iPad is great for reading, my phone keeps me in touch with family and friends, and my laptop travels almost everywhere. These tools make life more convenient. I can jump on a Zoom call, write a blog post, or catch up on the latest research without leaving the back porch.</p><p><br></p>
<p></p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">But here’s the thing: as much as I appreciate what technology can do, I’ve learned to keep it in its place. At the end of the day, these devices are just tools. Helpful, yes—but they’re not the main event.</p><p><br></p>
<p></p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Technology can extend our reach, but it doesn’t replace real connection. A FaceTime call with the grandkids is a gift, but it’ll never top a hug or a shared laugh in person. Scrolling through social media might help me stay updated, but it doesn’t feed the soul the way a real conversation over coffee does.</p><p><br></p>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Even the productivity apps—don’t get me wrong, I love a good system—but sometimes the best clarity comes from sitting quietly with a notepad and pen. There’s something grounding about putting your thoughts on paper, about letting your ideas breathe without a screen between you and them.</p><p><br></p>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">So yes, I’ll keep using my tech tools. I’ll enjoy the ways they make life easier and more connected. But I won’t let them distract me from the real magic—that moment of eye contact, that belly laugh, that pause in the day when you’re fully present.</p><p><br></p>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Tech is there to serve us, not run the show. And now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got a call to make—to a certain grandkid who tells the best knock-knock jokes this side of Arizona.</p>
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		<p>The post <a href="https://garyfretwell.com/productivity-and-personal-development-coaching/i-love-my-tech-tools-but-lets-keep-them-in-perspective/">I Love My Tech Tools—But Let’s Keep Them in Perspective</a> appeared first on <a href="https://garyfretwell.com">My blog</a>.</p>
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		<title>Go Ahead, Make That Call!</title>
		<link>https://garyfretwell.com/overcoming-procrastination/go-ahead-make-that-call/</link>
					<comments>https://garyfretwell.com/overcoming-procrastination/go-ahead-make-that-call/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Gary Fretwell]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 09 Feb 2025 13:41:11 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Communications]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Overcoming procrastination]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Relationships]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[connections]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[now]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[relationships]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://garyfretwell.com/?p=4106</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>“We are like islands in the sea, separate on the surface but connected in the deep.”―&#160;William James Picture this:&#160;You’re sitting [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://garyfretwell.com/overcoming-procrastination/go-ahead-make-that-call/">Go Ahead, Make That Call!&lt;gwmw style=&quot;display:none;&quot;&gt;&lt;/gwmw&gt;</a> appeared first on <a href="https://garyfretwell.com">My blog</a>.</p>
]]></description>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">“We are like islands in the sea, separate on the surface but connected in the deep.”<br>―&nbsp;<strong>William James</strong></p><p><strong><br></strong></p>
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<p></p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Picture this:</strong>&nbsp;You’re sitting in your cozy chair, coffee in hand, and that feeling of nostalgia washes over you. Maybe it’s a friend from high school you haven’t spoken to in ages, or perhaps that cousin who always made family gatherings a real hoot. You think, “I should call them!” But then, the moment slips away, and you find yourself scrolling through social media instead. Sound familiar?</p><p><br></p>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Well, let me tell you something: stop right there! If you’ve been mulling over making that call, just do it! Seriously, there’s magic in picking up the phone and reaching out. It’s like opening a treasure chest of memories and laughter. Trust me, I’ve seen the power of a simple phone call.</p>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Think about it—how many times have you been on the receiving end of a surprise call? It’s like a warm hug wrapped in a voice! You hear their laughter, and you’re both transported back to those carefree days. Life has a funny way of reminding us how interconnected we all are. And guess what? Those connections are worth nurturing!</p><p><br></p>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Now, I get it. There’s always that little voice in your head whispering doubts. “What if they don’t remember me?” or “What if it’s awkward?” But here’s the thing: most people are just as eager to reconnect! You’d be surprised how quickly those worries fade once the conversation starts flowing. It’s like riding a bike; you might wobble at first, but soon, you’re cruising along, laughing at the good old times.</p><p><br></p>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">And let’s not forget the joy of sharing updates! “Hey, did you hear about that time I tried to cook Thanksgiving dinner and almost set the kitchen on fire?” or “You won’t believe how much the kids have grown!” These little snippets of life are what keep our relationships alive. They’re the threads that weave our lives together, creating a beautiful tapestry of shared experiences.</p><p><br></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">But wait, there’s more! Making that call isn’t just about them; it’s also about you. You’ll feel a surge of happiness and fulfillment that’s hard to beat. It’s like giving yourself a gift wrapped in joy! Plus, the world feels a little smaller and a lot friendlier when you take that step. So why not spread some cheer?</p><p><br></p>
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<p></p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Now, let’s talk about the “how.” It doesn’t have to be a grand, elaborate message. Just dial the number and say, “Hey! It’s been too long!” Simple as that! You can talk about anything—the weather, a recent trip, or even that book you just finished. The key is to be genuine and open. Who knows? You might even discover new layers to your friendship!</p><p><br></p>
<p></p>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">So, here’s my challenge: right after reading this, grab your phone, scroll through your contacts, and pick someone you’ve meant to call. Go ahead, make that call! You never know what delightful conversation awaits. Embrace the joy of connection, and let those relationships flourish. Life’s too short to let those moments slip away. Happy calling!</p>
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		<p>The post <a href="https://garyfretwell.com/overcoming-procrastination/go-ahead-make-that-call/">Go Ahead, Make That Call!&lt;gwmw style=&quot;display:none;&quot;&gt;&lt;/gwmw&gt;</a> appeared first on <a href="https://garyfretwell.com">My blog</a>.</p>
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