Recently I’ve been reading article after article that all seem to have the same common theme: The Internet is making us think differently. Furthermore, the debate that everyone seems to be having: is it for the better or for the worse?

Some people even say the Internet is making us stupid. Computers think for us, flattening our intelligence.

The fact is the Internet HAS shifted the way we think – being that the Internet is “always on” and you can access it whenever you want it.

One article in particular caught my eye that claims web-savvy people make bad jurors because they can’t listen. A Chief Justice described how he thinks it would be best to present information on a screen because that’s how people are used to digesting information. The complaint? While the counsel speaks and addresses the jury — people are lacking a basic skill set: listening.

In a positive light, another article presents an interesting point — technology makes people view the world as engineers; every problem can be solved if you have the right tools, enough time and you pose the right questions. This positive outlook gives technology a notch in the tree in the sense that it does make the world a better place.

In my opinion, consuming information online forces us to increase our quality of thought. We’ve formed daily routines (Google’ing) and adapted how we find information. I’m able to provide shorter, quicker, succinct communication (whatever it may be; phone conversations, emails, presentations, casual conversation). However — basic skills like listening CAN’T be lost at the expense of adapting to new technologies. It sometimes takes simple self-assessment (while it may seem completely silly) like just asking your best friends what your strengths and weaknesses are in regards to communication.

What’s my biggest communication problem? I interrupt people. I’m NOTORIOUS for it. How’d I find this out? I’ve asked my friends (and they’re not shy to tell me either, thanks guys).

That being said, I’ve got the attitude to be continually cognitive of this HORRIBLE communication trait, as well as the drive to want to change it — both vital to being successful no matter who you are or what your job is. So watch out the next time we’re having a conversation, I’m bound to finish your thoughts for you
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