Queen of Swords

QoS Ep 13 ~ Technology And Texting

July 24, 2023 Eva Sawyer Season 1 Episode 13
Queen of Swords
QoS Ep 13 ~ Technology And Texting
Show Notes Transcript Chapter Markers

Curious about how digital communication is shaping modern love stories? You'll surely find our latest episode enlightening. We promise to offer you a comprehensive understanding of the role of digital channels in romantic relationships, their pros and cons, and how to navigate around potential pitfalls. 

We're not stopping at just texts and emails.  Amidst stories of surprise love notes and shared virtual explorations, we'll also spill the beans on how to resolve conflicts constructively through digital channels. But it's not all about the digital world - we recognize the importance of real-world connections, and share tips on balancing digital and face-to-face interactions.

We bring you stories from couples who have mastered the art of digital communication in their relationships. Filled with real-life experiences and practical tips, this episode serves as a guidebook for those seeking to keep their love fires burning in this digital age. We also dive into digital detox practices, as we believe in striking a striking balance between the real and the virtual. So tune in, and let's unravel together the intricacies of romance in our tech-savvy world.

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Head over to www.queenofswordspodcast.com for the show notes!

 I. Today on Queen of Swords:

Hey there, lovely listeners! Welcome back to another exciting episode of “Queen of Swords” – the podcast where we unravel the mysteries of modern romance and relationships. I'm your host, Eva,  and today, we're diving deep into the world of digital love letters, emojis, and all things text and email in romantic relationships. Oh, you know, those tiny snippets of text that can make your heart flutter or send you into a frenzy of overthinking – yep, we've all been there!

Now, before we get started, let me just say this: I personally think that the invention of the cell phones is one of the worst things to happen to dating - I still remember a world with corded house phones and no caller ID. But since I know that isn’t the case for everyone, it is an important topic to sit down and talk about. 

So, grab your cup of coffee or your favorite bubbly beverage – no judgments here – and let's dive into the captivating world of texts and emails in the realm of romance.

Picture this: It's a lazy Sunday afternoon, and you're lounging in your PJs. You get a sweet text from your significant other saying, "Hey, just thinking about you and how lucky I am to have you in my life." Ah, instant warm fuzzies, am I right? Texts and emails make it super easy to stay connected, no matter the distance or how busy our lives get. Plus, emojis and gifs? They add that extra sprinkle of spice to any conversation!

But, oh boy, let's not forget the cons. Every rose has its thorns, and digital communication is no exception.

Ever sent a message that was totally misinterpreted? I bet you have! Texts can be tricky – no tone, no facial expressions – just a bunch of letters on a screen. And oh, the dreaded "read receipts" – they're the silent killers of relationships, turning us into anxiety-ridden detectives, trying to decipher why someone read our message but didn't reply. Trust me, we've all been there, too!

But hey, don't you worry! I'm here to save the day with some best practices that can help you navigate this digital maze with ease.


II. Pros of Digital Communication

Did you know that a whopping 92% of adults in the United States use smartphones, and they spend an average of 4 hours per day on their devices? That's like half a day dedicated to texting, scrolling, and well, maybe a little bit of stalking. But hey, it's no surprise that digital communication plays a significant role in our romantic lives. Here are some of the ways that texts and emails can be a positive part of your relationship…

First up, let's talk about the ultimate lifesaver - convenience and accessibility! I mean, who doesn't appreciate sending a heartfelt message at the speed of light? It's like Cupid's little helper, always at your fingertips! 

Picture this - Jack and Emma, a charming couple who met at a coffee shop. They've been together for a few months now, and their schedules are busier than a beehive on a summer day. But fret not! Texting swoops in to save the day! Jack can send a sweet "Good morning, sunshine!" while Emma's prepping for her day. How adorable!

Next up, we have the Flash of Communication - quick and instant messaging! It's like sharing secrets telepathically, only with a lot less mysticism and way more fun! Texts can bridge the gap between "Miss you lots" to "Be there in 5!" in the blink of an eye. And let's face it, the immediacy is perfect for all those times you're just too excited to wait!

Now, let's imagine Jane and Mike, the dynamic duo who live on opposite sides of the city. They're both at work, and it's Jane's birthday! But uh-oh, Mike almost forgot to plan something special! Cue the text message superhero! With one quick text, he arranges a surprise dinner at her favorite restaurant. Crisis averted!

And who can resist the charm of emojis and gifs? They're like the spice that makes your digital conversations finger-lickin' good! 😜 They add a whole new layer of emotional expression! In fact, studies show that 70% of millennials believe emojis convey feelings better than words. It's like having a pocket-sized Picasso for all your heart's emotions!

Meet Tom and Lisa, the lovebirds who speak emoji fluently! One evening, Lisa is having a rough day at work, and she can't wait to vent to Tom. But instead of a plain old "How was your day?" text, Tom sends her a gif of a cute puppy hugging a kitten. Instantly, Lisa feels comforted and loved. Thanks, technology!

Let's take a moment to appreciate the unsung hero of digital communication - reducing anxiety for introverted individuals. We all know how nerve-wracking face-to-face conversations can be for some folks, especially when it comes to sharing vulnerable feelings. Texting or emailing provides a safe haven for expressing themselves without that pressure-cooker atmosphere! I know that it has personally done wonders for me - in the last couple of years I have struggled with a couple of health issues that make it so that my brain works well, my mouth..not so much! So at least for the moment I focus on podcast scripts, blogs and email tarot readings because I can get the words out the way I want them. 

Now we take a look at Alex and Sam, the adorably shy couple who met at a book club. While they can talk for hours about their favorite novels, expressing their deepest emotions is a bit more daunting. Thanks to texting, they can share their thoughts and feelings at their own pace, without feeling like they're performing on a reality TV show!

And last but not least, let's not forget about creating a written record of conversations. Ah, the sweet nostalgia of scrolling through old messages, reliving cherished memories, and revisiting those heart-fluttering exchanges! It's like your love story, written in digital ink!

Sarah and Chris are the hopeless romantics who believe in documenting every milestone. From their first "Hi" to their virtual anniversary celebration, they've got it all in writing! Who needs a time machine when you have a phone that can take you back in time to relive your love story, right?

But digital communication isn’t always sunshine and roses - let’s take a look at some of the issues that can pop up.

III. Cons of Digital Communication

Now, don't get me wrong, I'm a big fan of modern technology, but let's be real, folks - sometimes, it can throw a monkey wrench into our love lives. Here are some of the more common issues to consider:

A. Misinterpretation of tone and intent

Picture this: you've just sent a heartfelt text to your significant other, expressing your love and admiration. You're eagerly awaiting their response, but when it arrives, you're taken aback. Is that... sarcasm? Oh boy, the dreaded misinterpretation! Texts and emails often lack the emotional cues we get in face-to-face conversations, and as much as we love emojis, they can only do so much.When you consider that studies show that 70% of people have misinterpreted the tone of a text message at least once in their relationship, it’s easy to understand why it can be a problem. I mean think about the response “fine” - well, depending on the type of conversation and tone fine can mean things are actually ok, or it can mean that things are most assuredly NOT fine.

It's like our messages sometimes get lost in translation. So, folks, before jumping to conclusions, maybe give your partner the benefit of the doubt and clarify things if you're unsure. 

B. Lack of non-verbal cues and emotional nuances

Ah, the beauty of in-person conversations - the eye contact, the smiles, the little touches that say so much. Unfortunately, our digital love letters miss out on these crucial non-verbal cues. No wonder we often feel like something's missing in those text exchanges.

90% of all effective communication comes from non-verbal cues - body language, eye contact, facial expressions… So when you are relying solely on the text or email it is like trying to read (and understand) an article where 90% of the text has been blacked out. It’s hard to have any sort of meaningful understanding if you only have 10% of the information, right?

So, here's a tip: mix it up a bit! Opt for video calls or voice messages every once in a while. Seeing and hearing each other can add that special touch that plain texts can't replicate. And hey, it's the next best thing to being there in person.

C. Overreliance on digital communication leading to face-to-face communication issues

Imagine this quirky scenario: Jane and John are a couple deeply in love, but they're both tech enthusiasts. They text each other throughout the day, and by the time they meet up for dinner, they find themselves... struggling to maintain a face-to-face conversation. Studies show that some 45% of people admit to checking their phones during dinner or at important events. When doing research for this episode I came across a TikTok video of a couple. They had just gotten married and are walking back up the aisle together. She is all smiles and accepting congrats from her loved ones. Her new groom though? Glued to his phone screen, not even looking up once! It's like the digital realm is taking over our real-world connections. Folks, it's crucial to strike that balance! Put down the phones and genuinely engage with each other when you're together. Share your day, your dreams, and don't forget to savor those precious moments.

D. Potential for miscommunication and conflicts

Here's a scenario that'll make you go, "Oh no!" Say you've made exciting plans for the weekend, but your partner misreads the details in your email, and chaos ensues. Suddenly, you're both frustrated, and what could've been a fantastic time becomes a communication breakdown. And for 1 in every 3 couples this leads to a BIG argument, making the situation 10x worse then it needed to be.

Who knew tiny misunderstandings could snowball into epic battles? I’m sure by now I sound like a broken record, but communication really is the key to address the issue head-on. A phone call might do the trick, or if it's serious, a heart-to-heart conversation can save the day.

E. Intrusiveness of constant connectivity

Imagine this: It's late at night, and you're cozy in bed, ready to sleep. But wait, there's a buzz - another text. And then another. Your partner's adorable, but man, can't a sleepyhead catch a break? 40% of people feel like their partner uses their phone too much during their quality time together. I have had partners before where it has just been constant notifications and it is exhausting. 

The constant connectivity can feel, well, a tad intrusive. It's essential to set boundaries, folks. Remember, we all need some digital downtime, and respecting each other's space is a surefire way to keep the love alive. Lets get ready to dice into some best practices now.

IV. Best Practices

As many of you know, I work on a psychic/tarot hotline at night. And without fail, EVERY night I get calls dealing with texting. I even had one woman who came to me because she was convinced that if it took her partner more then 45 minutes to answer that he HAD to be cheating. Like girl, take a chill pill! So many people seem to freak out, so let’s look at some best practices to keep in mind so that you can stop wondering if this is normal or a cause for concern.

  1. Appropriate context for different types of messages

75% of couples admit to sending a text to their partner when they are angry or in the middle of an argument. It is critical to have the right context for

  • Clarity of intent: Sending “what did you do today?” Can lead to confusion or worry without context. Like are you genuinely interested in what I did today, or are you trying to see if you can trip me up because you don’t trust me? (Which is a whole other conversation honestly!)
  • Respect for boundaries: Ladies, think about all the unsolicited dick pics that get sent to you when you are looking to make a connection on an online dating app. I am not even ON dating apps and I still get the occassional dick pic or caller who thinks I am a phone sex worker who is going to help them get off. Poeple who do things like that do not give a damn about your boundaries - so make sure that you and your partner have a conversation about yours.
  • Avoid sensitive topics: Some topics are really made for a face to face conversation. These include things like doubts about the relationship, break ups (seriously, don’t be that person!), emotional confessions, personal traumas or big life situations. There is a time and a place for important conversations that affect more then just yourself, and a text or email just isn’t it.

2. Using video calls and voice messages to add a personal touch.

Ah, the magic of technology! Texts are great, but if you really want to crank up the intimacy, why not hop on a video call or send a cute voice message? Seeing and hearing each other brings back that in-person charm, even when miles apart. It's like sending a warm, virtual hug – and hey, it's an excellent way to show off your silly dance moves too! Sarah and Jake are in a long distance relationship and really miss each other terribly. Jake’s surprise video call after Sarah’s shitty day at work really means the world to her.

And side note, video calls can be a great way to help weed out romance scammers if you have not met the person face to face yet. Scammers commonly will give you every excuse under the sun to get out of a video call. Just remember that if you HAVE met someone face to face and they don’t like to video call that isn’t always a red flag!

3. Being mindful of response times and expectations.

60% of people admit to being anxious or insecure when their partner doesn’t respond right away - and I have had a front row seat to some spectacular melt downs. When you first start dating you should be having a conversation about your expectations. There are legitimately people out there who HATE texting, and if you know that up front don’t you think that you will save yourself a ton of headaches? 

Patience is a virtue my friend. In the age of instant everything it is no wonder that we have become accustomed to the idea of not having to wait, but that is completely unrealistic for a lot of people out there. And anyone who has googled the situation is bombarded by article after article telling you that slow responses are a huge red flag. But maybe, just maybe…

  • They are at work. There are still a lot of workplaces that don’t allow cell phones on you. In fact, I read an article just today about a 20 year old woman that was upset that she got fired for spending over an hour on her phone when she was supposed to be working. Share your work schedules if you want to cut down on issues.
  • They don’t have their phone on them. Yeah, I know - I hear you all saying “but I see him with it all the time”… but even if that is the case 90% of the time there are going to be some instances where they DON’T have their phone. It could be charging, they could be with family or friends, or maybe they even left it in their car. I know that for me personally I essentially have my phone grafted onto my hand. I use it for business and personal, and there is still at least two to three times a day where I put it down because it has to go on the charger, or worse, that I legitimately can’t remember where I put it down. Cut your partner some slack.
  • They may not have service. Yes, I know that is less and less of an issue these days, but there are still people who have to deal with holes in the coverage map. When I go once a month grocery shopping I travel about 100 miles to the closest Albertsons and Walmart. And I go through about a 60-65 mile stretch of the roads where I have either NO service, or like one bar (which let’s face it might as well be no service!) 

If it has only been a few minutes, or even a couple of hours try not to panic. At a bare minimum, for a person that does not live with you, allow them at least 24 hours to respond. And if the relationship is fairly new, it isn’t a good idea to completely cut them out unless it has been more then a week since you last spoke. By the way, if he is sending you a “good morning” or an emoji to you, you don’t get to say that he is not texting you back. A response isn’t not a response just because you think it should be more substantial. I literally had a client one day that was talking about how her partner hadn’t texted her in ages. But when I pushed her on it, to tell me when she last heard from him she was like “Oh he texted me good morning today, but it has been ages since he gave more then a sentence answer” Ladies, manage your expectations! Yes, you can have standards, but maybe ask yourself if you are being realistic.

Our next tip is an important one!

D. Avoiding arguments and sensitive discussions via text or email.

Let's get real – important discussions deserve real conversations. Texts and emails can easily lead to misunderstandings because they lack those emotional cues we pick up in person. So, when the going gets tough, resist the urge to hit "send" on that argumentative text. Instead, set aside some time for a heartfelt chat where you can connect on a deeper level.

Picture this: Mark and Emily got into a little disagreement over text, and their exchange turned into a misunderstanding monster! But once they sat down together and talked it out, they realized how much they misunderstood each other.

And for our final tip of the day!

E. Emphasizing open communication about digital preferences and boundaries.

Communication is the glue that holds relationships together, and digital communication is no exception. So, let's be crystal clear about our preferences and boundaries. Are you the type who loves receiving good morning texts? Or maybe you need some quiet time to recharge after work? Let your partner know! Understanding each other's digital needs strengthens your connection in the long run. And when you consider that only about 30% of couples openly discuss their preferences and boundaries it’s easy to see why this can be a problem, right?

One of my deepest frustrations when working with clients is the refusal (mostly on the part of women) to just talk about what they want or need from their partner. If I had a nickel for everytime someone said “If he cared he would just KNOW!” I’d be Scrooge McDuck level rich. People are not mind readers, most people don’t have crystal balls - and you are being DEEPLY unfair to hold someone to a standard that they don’t even know that they are being mesured on. Just keep in mind that man and womens brains are LITERALLY structured different, so just because you have a certain idea of how things should be doesn’t mean that your partner has the same exact idea.

Let’s move on to how you can use technology to keep the intimacy going in your relationship.

V. Maintaining Intimacy

Balancing digital communication with in-person interactions is critical to maintaining intimacy.

We live in a world of screens and emojis, but remember, there's no app for a warm hug! While texts and emails can be great for quick check-ins and cute love messages, don't forget to balance it with real face-to-face connections. Studies show that couples who spend quality time together in person report higher relationship satisfaction. So, put down those phones, plan a romantic date, and enjoy some quality time together.

Take Jack and Emily, for example, a couple deeply in love. They've been texting each other all day, but suddenly, Emily suggests, "Hey Jack, let's have a tech-free evening tonight, just you and me, okay?" Jack agrees, and they spend the evening enjoying a candlelit dinner, sharing laughter, and strengthening their bond.

Sending surprise love notes and thoughtful messages can also be a game changer!

Ah, the power of a heartfelt message! Sending surprise love notes or thoughtful texts can be a beautiful way to keep the romance alive. According to a survey by the Love Institute, 85% of respondents said that receiving unexpected love messages positively impacted their relationship. So, don't be shy, get creative, and make your partner smile with a sweet surprise. When I was first dating my first husband we went through a period where we couldn’t spend as much time together. I was working days and he was working overnights. But he would randomly leave a card with a handwritten note and a small stuffed animal in my car while I was at work. Knowing that he was not only thinking of me, but that he took the time to find just the right card, sit down and write a heartfelt note AND pick the perfect stuffie made me feel loved and appreciated. Let’s face it, after a hard day of dealing with the public in a retail store, it was a welcome surprise that put a smile on my face every time.

Using technology to schedule and plan romantic dates is a great way to stay connected.

Technology can be your relationship's secret weapon! Busy schedules might make it tough to find time for each other, but fear not! Use your gadgets to schedule and plan romantic dates. Apps like “LoveWick”, “Cupla” and “TimeTree” can be your love assistants, making sure you never miss a chance to woo your partner. Cupla is my favorite for letting both of you being able to share schedules and plan a date night!

Jack and Emily both have hectic work schedules, but they've set up a shared calendar where they add potential date nights. Emily adds a fun cooking class and Jack adds a scenic hike. The surprise element makes it even more exciting when the calendar notification pops up: "Date night tonight, surprise location!"

Prioritizing active listening and empathy during digital exchanges is also critical to relationship success.

Ah, communication—the heart of any relationship! And in the digital realm, active listening is pure gold. When you're texting or emailing, it's easy to misinterpret tone and intent. So, let's be mindful of our partner's feelings and practice empathy. According to the Journal of Communication, couples who show empathy in their digital conversations report higher levels of relationship satisfaction.

One evening, Emily texts Jack, expressing her concerns about an upcoming presentation at work. Instead of just replying with a simple "you'll do great," Jack takes the time to respond thoughtfully, acknowledging her fears and offering words of encouragement. Emily feels understood and supported, knowing that Jack genuinely cares.

Remember, technology is a fantastic tool to enhance your romantic relationship, but it's no substitute for genuine human connection. Now let’s talk about conflicts and apologies. 


VI. Conflicts and Apologies


Are you able to recognize when an apology is warranted?

Alright, let's start with the basics. How do we know when it's time to apologize? Well, folks, it's essential to be self-aware and recognize when we've messed up. Whether it's forgetting an important date or accidentally sending that funny meme at the wrong time – admitting our mistakes is crucial for maintaining a strong connection. Did you know that 74% of people in relationships feel more connected to their partners after receiving a sincere apology? So, don't shy away from saying those magic words, "I'm sorry."

Picture this: Alex and Jamie are a couple who recently had a virtual date night. Jamie had planned a romantic dinner, but Alex was glued to their phone, barely paying attention. Recognizing the blunder, Alex decides it's time to apologize.

Crafting a sincere and meaningful apology through text or email when you don’t have the option for face to face conversation isn’t easy.

It like a daunting task, but fear not – I've got some tips for you! First off, avoid the classic "I'm sorry you feel that way" trap. It's not a real apology; it's just passing the blame. Instead, own up to your mistake and express genuine remorse. Use "I" statements to take responsibility.

Here's a pro-tip for you: Try to acknowledge the specific hurt or inconvenience you caused. It shows that you truly understand the impact of your actions.

So, back to Alex and Jamie. To apologize for being preoccupied during their date night, Alex sends a heartfelt text: "Hey Jamie, I messed up last night. I'm really sorry for being on my phone the whole time. I know it made you feel neglected, and I feel terrible about it. I promise to be more present and attentive next time. Can we have a do-over date soon?"

Have strategies for resolving conflicts constructively through digital channels in your toolbox if you need them is incredibly important.

Conflict happens in every relationship, but how we deal with it can make all the difference. When resolving conflicts digitally, it's crucial to avoid the temptation of typing out a heated response in the heat of the moment. Take a deep breath, count to ten, and then begin your message. Remember, communication is key! Use "I" statements, and try to understand your partner's perspective. Research shows that 53% of couples who communicate effectively through digital channels report higher relationship satisfaction.

Use emojis wisely! A well-placed smiley can soften your message and convey a positive tone, but try to steer clear of ones that can be confusing or misunderstood (especially if you are different cultures) Do you know how old I was before I realized what the eggplant emoji was used for? I was…well, never mind how old…just know that I had 5 out of my 6 kids already!

Now, imagine Alex and Jamie have a disagreement about future travel plans. Instead of engaging in a text war, they take a deep breath and start a constructive digital conversation.

Knowing when to switch to face-to-face conversation for resolution is an important skill. As much as digital communication can help us connect, it's essential to know when to switch to face-to-face interaction for conflict resolution. Some issues are too complex or emotionally charged for texts and emails. Body language, tone of voice – these are vital components of effective communication that we miss out on in the digital realm.

If you find that the conversation is going in circles or becoming more heated, suggest meeting up to discuss things in person. Sometimes, a simple hug can do wonders.

Continuing with our couple, Alex and Jamie realize that the travel plans issue needs more than just a text exchange. They decide to meet up, have a cup of coffee, and work through their concerns together. Some people are visual people, and just being able to look at a document or brochure together can be helpful. There are a lot of times when my husband tries to describe something to me, but 9 times out of 10 he ends up having to draw it out on paper because my brain literally can’t “see” it from just the description itself. 


VII. Overload

Let’s talk about digital overload for a minute. And those of you shaking your heads right now, give me a chance to explain what I mean. I am positive that there is at least one of you, but probably most of you, who have dealt with this at least once. Have you ever found yourself frustrated with the notification sound on your phone? Just rolled your eyes and maybe even put the phone on silent? You were probably experiencing digital fatigue. Yep, it’s a real thing and you are not alone. 

  • Identifying signs of digital communication fatigue:

Let’s go back to Jamie and Alex for a moment. Lately Alex has been sending almost non-stop texts about mundane things, random memes, or whatever pops into his head at that moment. Jamie appreciates that he wants to stay connected to her, but she is finding it really hard to keep up with the constant flow. She starts feeling overwhelmed and dreading the buzzing of her phone. Her work and concentration suffer because she knows that no matter what she is doing she is going to get interrupted. 

Or how about Sarah and Chris? Lately Sarah has noticed a trend. Whenever Chris is feeling overwhelmed with emotions or needs support he sends her these book length text messages or emails. He pours out all his worries, anxieties, and fears - needing comfort and reassurance. They are leaving her feeling drained and anxious herself. She worries about saying the wrong thing, and what used to be freely given support now feels like a burden and like there is no space for her own concerns.

Did you know that the average American sends something like 95 texts A DAY? No wonder digital fatigue is a more common issue these days!

- Discussing communication boundaries with your partner:

It's time to hit the brakes and have a good ol' heart-to-heart with your partner. So, talk to each other about your digital preferences. You can start with something like, "Hey, babe, you know I love getting your messages, but I think we could find a balance."

Remember, communication isn't just about words. It's also about listening and understanding. Be open to your partner's needs and feelings too.

- Implementing digital detox practices for relationship health:

Sometimes you just need a break. Time for a digital detox! No, no, I'm not suggesting you toss your phones in a river, but how about some healthy balance? Give yourselves time to recharge without the constant ding of notifications. Maybe plan a weekend getaway and leave your devices behind or agree on tech-free meal times.


VIII. How to Use Tech to Strengthen Your Relationship

How can you use technology in a more positive way to make your relationship rock solid? So, let's kick things off with the idea of sharing digital experiences and interests. Did you know that 78% of couples believe that sharing hobbies and interests improves their relationship? That's right, folks! When you find common ground in the digital realm, it can create a unique bond between you and your partner.

Imagine this - we have Sarah and Jake. They're both fans of gaming and decide to explore a virtual world together. They embark on epic quests, slay mythical beasts, and celebrate their victories as a team. Sharing these adventures not only brings them joy but also fosters a sense of unity and camaraderie. It's like having your very own secret language that only the two of you understand.

Using apps and tools to coordinate activities and plan for the future is another great tool. Let's talk about being the ultimate power couple when it comes to coordinating activities and planning for the future! Studies have shown that 64% of couples use technology to organize their schedules and responsibilities together. Let's face it; life can get hectic, and coordinating calendars can be a headache. But fear not! Technology has our backs!

Remember the apps that I mentioned a couple segments back? Apps like LoveWick and Cupla are really game changers in my opinion. Having them in your pocket means that you can keep track of relationship milestones, share your work schedule and more. It helps you avoid miscommunication about when you are available, but also can build anticipation as you count down the days until you can see each other again.

Take a peek into the lives of Alex and Emily. They both have busy careers, friends, and family to juggle. So, they turn to apps like shared calendars and to-do lists to stay on top of things. By managing their time efficiently, they can carve out more quality moments to spend with each other. Plus, there's a dash of friendly competition as they gamify their chores, rewarding each other with kisses and hugs for completing tasks. Talk about turning the mundane into a fun-filled adventure!

Let’s talk now about expressing love and affection creatively through multimedia messages. Ah, love and affection! The fuel that keeps the romance engine running. Did you know that 72% of couples use multimedia messages to express their feelings for each other? Who needs a modern-day Romeo or Juliet when you can be your own digital Cupid!

Let’s peek in on Mia and Chris. They live in different cities due to work, but that doesn't dampen their spirits. Instead, they embrace technology to shower each other with love. From voice notes with sweet nothings to sending silly selfies and funny GIFs, they keep the flames of passion burning bright.

And let's not forget the infamous "good night" calls! Where one partner dozes off to dreamland while the other gets to watch them sleep. Creepy? Maybe a little, but hey, it's all about being close even when you're far away! My husband and I would literally fall asleep talking to each other, and by propping the laptop or phone next to us it was almost like we were able to be in the same room together.

Before we wrap up, I want to remind you that while technology can bring couples closer, it's essential to strike a balance and not let screens replace genuine human connection. So, put down those phones once in a while and make time for some good ol' fashioned face-to-face moments.

IX. Conclusion

Today, we dove deep into the digital realm of romantic relationships, exploring the wonders of texts and emails, their pros and cons, and some practical tips to keep the love fires burning in this tech-savvy age.

Ah, the convenience and accessibility! Quick messages flying back and forth like a ping-pong match. Did you know, studies show that 75% of couples in long-distance relationships rely heavily on texting as their primary mode of communication? It's true! Long gone are the days of waiting weeks for a letter; we've got our digital Cupid's arrows now!

But hey, with great power comes great responsibility, right? 🕷️ With all the "LOLs" and emojis, there's room for misinterpretation. And speaking of emojis, 68% of millennials believe they're essential for expressing their feelings. I mean, how else do you say "I love you" without a cute heart-eyes emoji? 

Yet, let's face it; there are pitfalls in the digital communication realm. The lack of non-verbal cues - like facial expressions and body language - can sometimes lead to misunderstandings. It's like trying to read a novel with half the pages missing; not cool!

So here's a scenario for you: Imagine our couple, Alex and Taylor. They have this little miscommunication episode over text, and it escalates into a tiny digital storm.  One's thinking, "Why so serious?" while the other's just having a laugh! Classic, right?

But fear not! We've shared some top-notch best practices! First and foremost, communicate openly with your partner about your digital preferences and boundaries.

And remember, folks, there's no substitute for real-life connections! Plan those romantic dates, surprise your partner with handwritten love notes (yes, they still exist!), and keep those sparks flying offline too. 

Let's not forget the art of apologies - because we all goof up sometimes, right? Sending a heartfelt apology via text can mend a digital heartache, but if things get too complicated, put down that phone and embrace the power of face-to-face resolution!

Finally, we talked digital detox! Yes, even in the age of endless scrolling, it's essential to recognize when we're reaching communication overload. Put down those screens, take a stroll hand-in-hand, and reconnect without the pixels in between. Your relationship will thank you!

And there you have it, folks! Embrace the digital age with open arms, texts, and emails, but always remember the key is to find that oh-so-perfect balance with real-life connections. Cultivate strong and meaningful relationships that stand the test of time and technology! 

Thanks for tuning in to this episode of “Queen of Swords." Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and share this podcast with all your tech-savvy friends! Until next time, this is Eva your Queen of Swords, signing off with love, laughter, and a lot of heart emojis!

Today on QoS...
Pros of Digital Communication
Cons of Digital Communication
Best Practices
Maintaining Intimacy
Conflicts and Apologies
Overload
How to Use Tech to Strengthen Relationships
Wrap Up
Outro and Music