Reading Time: 13 minutes Don’t Be So Rude. 24 Places You Should ALWAYS Put Your Phone Away
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Our phones have become an essential part of our daily lives. We use them for everything, communication, entertainment, work, and more. But as useful as they are, there are times when using our phones can be inappropriate or even dangerous.
A survey by VitalSmarts revealed that 89% of people said careless use of technology had negatively affected their relationships. This shows just how much our phone habits can impact our personal connections and social interactions.
Given this information, it’s clear that we need to be more mindful about when and where we use our phones. To help you out, I’ve put together a list of 24 places where it’s best to keep your phone tucked away.
Did we miss any? Let us know in the comments!
Table of Contents
While Driving
Driving while using your phone is incredibly dangerous. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that distracted driving claimed 3,308 lives in 2022 alone. Even hands-free devices aren’t completely safe.
When you’re behind the wheel, your full attention should be on the road. No text, call, or social media update is worth risking your life or the lives of others. Make it a habit to put your phone away before you start your car.
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In the Kitchen
Cooking requires focus and attention to detail. Using your phone while preparing food can lead to accidents or cooking mishaps. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns that handling devices during meal prep may even pose a food contamination risk.
In fact, 49% of consumers use phones and other devices while preparing food. Next time you’re in the kitchen, try to resist the urge to check your phone. Give your full attention to creating a delicious and safe meal instead.
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In the Bathroom
Using your phone in the bathroom is a big no-no. It’s not just gross, it’s also disrespectful in shared restrooms. A recent survey found that 73% of people admit to using their phones on the toilet.
This habit can spread bacteria and viruses, putting your health at risk. Plus, there’s always the chance you might drop your expensive device in water. Save your scrolling for a more appropriate time and place.
Related: Guide to Update Bathroom on a Budget
During a Meeting
Checking your phone during a meeting is unprofessional and disrespectful. It shows a lack of interest in the discussion and can be distracting to others. You might also miss important information if you’re focused on your screen.
When you’re in a meeting, keep your phone out of sight. Give your full attention to the speaker and your colleagues. This will help you stay engaged and make a better impression on those around you.
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In a Movie Theater
The movie theater is a place to escape into a story, not to catch up on texts or social media. A study The Hollywood Reporter found that 75% of moviegoers were bothered by phone use during films. The bright screen and noise can ruin the experience for everyone around you.
Many theaters now have strict policies against phone use during movies. Respect your fellow moviegoers and the filmmakers’ work turning off your phone or putting it on silent mode before the movie starts.
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In Classrooms or Lecture Halls
Using your phone in class is a surefire way to miss out on important information. It’s also disruptive to your classmates and disrespectful to your teacher or professor.
A study at Rutgers University found that students who used smartphones during class scored much lower on exams. When you’re in a learning environment, put your phone away and focus on the lesson. Your grades and your future self will thank you for paying attention.
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In Hospitals or Doctor’s Offices
Hospitals and medical facilities are places where phone use can be particularly problematic. Your device might interfere with sensitive medical equipment. Plus, patients need a quiet environment to rest and recover.
If you’re visiting a hospital or doctor’s office, keep your phone on silent or turn it off completely. Step outside if you need to make a call. Respecting these guidelines helps ensure the best care for everyone.
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During Religious Services
Places of worship are meant for reflection, prayer, and community. Using your phone during a religious service is disruptive and disrespectful. It can disturb others who are there to worship and connect with their faith.
If you’re attending a religious service, turn off your phone or leave it on silent. Give your full attention to the service and the people around you. This shows respect for the sanctity of the space and the beliefs of others.
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At the Dinner Table
Meal times are perfect opportunities for connecting with family and friends. Yet, many of us are guilty of checking our phones instead of engaging in conversation.
A study by the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology found that when phones were present during a meal, people felt more distracted and enjoyed their time less. Make it a rule to keep phones away during meals.
Focus on the food and the company instead. You’ll likely find your conversations more meaningful and your meals more enjoyable.
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In the Library
Libraries are quiet spaces designed for reading, studying, and research. Using your phone in a library can be incredibly disruptive to others who need concentration. Even the sound of typing can be a disturbance in this environment.
If you need to use your phone in a library, step outside or use designated areas. Respect the peace and quiet that libraries provide. This allows everyone to make the most of this valuable community resource.
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In Restaurants
Dining out is a social experience meant to be enjoyed with companions or even savored alone. Using your phone at the table can be disruptive and impolite. When you’re constantly checking your device, you miss out on meaningful conversations and the full dining experience.
It’s also disrespectful to the restaurant staff who are there to serve you. Next time you’re at a restaurant, try keeping your phone out of sight. Focus on the food, the ambiance, and the company. You’ll likely find the meal more enjoyable and satisfying when you’re fully present.
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On Airplanes (During Takeoff and Landing)
Safety is paramount when flying, and that’s why airlines ask passengers to turn off electronic devices during takeoff and landing. The Federal Aviation Administration reports that electronic device use during these critical times can lead to distractions for both passengers and crew.
It’s not just about following rules, it’s about ensuring everyone’s safety. When you’re on a plane, listen carefully to the flight attendants’ instructions.
Turn off your phone or switch it to airplane mode when asked. Your social media updates can wait until you’re safely in the air or back on the ground.
Related: 23 Top Travel Tips From Frugal Frequent Flyers (With Video)
In the Gym
The gym is a place for focusing on your health and fitness, not your phone. Using your device while working out can be dangerous, you might not pay attention to your form or your surroundings. This could lead to injuries or accidents.
Many gyms now have policies against excessive phone use on the workout floor. When you’re at the gym, put your phone away and concentrate on your exercise routine. You’ll likely have a more effective workout and avoid potential mishaps.
Related: 8 Ways to Build More Exercise into Your Workday
While Walking in Busy Areas
Walking while using your phone is a recipe for accidents. A recent study found that 31% of distracted pedestrians were involved in incidents. When you’re focused on your screen, you’re not aware of your surroundings.
You might bump into other people, trip over obstacles, or even walk into traffic. Keep your head up and your phone in your pocket when you’re walking, especially in busy areas.
Stay alert and aware of what’s going on around you. This simple habit can help keep you and others safe.
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At a Job Interview
A job interview is your chance to make a great first impression. Using your phone during this time sends all the wrong signals. It shows a lack of interest, poor time management, and unprofessional behavior.
Your full attention should be on the interviewer and the conversation at hand. Before your interview, turn off your phone and put it away.
Show your potential employer that you’re fully engaged and serious about the opportunity. This approach will greatly improve your chances of landing the job.
Related: 20 Reasons Gen Z Can’t Get a Job, and Why Companies Won’t Hire Them
At Social Events or Parties
Social events and parties are meant for interacting with people face-to-face, not through a screen. Constantly checking your phone can make you appear disinterested in the people around you.
It can also prevent you from forming new connections or deepening existing relationships. When you’re at a social gathering, try to keep your phone use to a minimum.
Engage in conversations, participate in activities, and enjoy the company of others. You might be surprised at how much more enjoyable social events can be when you’re fully present.
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At a Funeral
Funerals are solemn occasions that require respect and sensitivity. Using your phone during a funeral service is highly inappropriate and can be seen as insensitive to those who are grieving.
This is a time to pay your respects and offer support to the bereaved. Keep your phone turned off and out of sight during the service.
If you absolutely must take a call or respond to a message, step outside and away from the gathering. Remember, your presence and attention are what matter most in these moments.
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In Courtrooms
Courtrooms demand a high level of respect. Many courts prohibit the use of phones and other electronic devices. Using your phone in court can be seen as contempt and may result in serious consequences.
If you’re attending a court proceeding, turn off your phone before entering the courtroom. Pay attention to the proceedings and show respect for the legal process. If you need to use your phone, wait until you’re outside the courtroom during a break.
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During a Performance (Concerts, Plays)
Live performances are meant to be experienced in the moment, not through a phone screen. Using your phone during a concert or play is disruptive to both the performers and other audience members.
Many venues now have strict no-phone policies during shows. When you’re attending a live performance, keep your phone off and tucked away.
Immerse yourself in the experience without the distraction of your device. You’ll likely find the performance more enjoyable and memorable this way.
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At a Wedding
Weddings are joyous occasions that celebrate love and commitment. While it’s tempting to capture every moment on your phone, doing so can actually detract the experience. Many couples now prefer “unplugged” ceremonies, asking guests to put away their devices.
Respect the couple’s wishes and focus on the beautiful moment unfolding before you. Professional photographers are there to capture the event. Put your phone away and be fully present for this special day.
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In a Changing Room
Changing rooms are private spaces where people should feel comfortable and secure. Using your phone in a changing room can make others feel uncomfortable and invade their privacy.
There’s also the risk of accidentally capturing images of others, which is both unethical and potentially illegal. When you’re in a changing room, keep your phone in your bag or pocket.
Focus on trying on clothes without distractions. This shows respect for others and maintains the privacy of the space.
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In Museums or Art Galleries
Museums and art galleries are places to appreciate culture, history, and creativity. Many exhibits have rules against photography or phone use to protect the artwork and enhance the visitor experience. Using your phone can distract you and others from the exhibits.
When you visit a museum or gallery, try to keep your phone tucked away. Take the time to really look at and appreciate the artwork around you. You’ll likely have a more enriching experience without the distraction of your device.
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In Elevators
Elevators are small, confined spaces where using your phone can feel intrusive to others. The close quarters make private conversations impossible, and scrolling through your phone can create an awkward atmosphere.
Instead of reaching for your device, try acknowledging the people around you with a smile or a polite nod. Keep your phone in your pocket or purse during the short elevator ride. This small gesture can make the shared space more comfortable for everyone.
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On Public Transport
While sometimes necessary, using your phone on public transport can be disruptive to other passengers. Loud conversations or the sound of games or videos can irritate those around you, especially during busy commute times.
If you need to use your phone on a bus or train, try to keep your voice down and use headphones for any audio. Be mindful of the people around you and try to limit your phone use to essential tasks. This consideration will make the journey more pleasant for everyone.
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Be Present, Not Just Connected
As we’ve seen, there are many situations where using our phones can be inappropriate, disruptive, or even dangerous. The key is to be mindful of our surroundings and the people around us.
Next time you’re tempted to reach for your device, take a moment to consider if it’s the right time and place. You might be surprised at how much more you notice, learn, and enjoy when you’re not looking at a screen.
After all, life’s most precious moments often happen when we’re fully present and connected, to the world and to each other, not just to our devices.
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AI was used for light editing, formatting, and readability. But a human (me!) wrote and edited this.