I Am Afraid of Hearing My Phone Ring

Hearing the ringtone at first may be incredible, but this portrays my life. However, as a college student, I realize that this small and sharp voices have become triggers for stress, anxiety, and even guilt. Between dealing with deadlines and group work, the telephone is no longer a tool for communication; instead, it has become a source of fear.


Whenever I hear the phone ring, my brain immediately thinks of the worst situation: whether I forget to submit something or there is another new task. Or even to remind me that I haven't replied to anyone else's news in one day.

We live in a high-tech interconnected world; people expect immediate responses. But I have time to communicate with myself. In my mind, life at university is supposed to be a time to explore and grow, but sometimes it feels like an endless to-do list for me. 

In addition to this, there is also the pressure of social performance. What will happen when I miss the professor's message or send the wrong message in the group chat, which will make me feel embarrassed? This kind of thing does not sound like a big deal, but it can be very troublesome when accumulated, especially when your mental bandwidth is insufficient. Therefore, I usually set my mobile phone to silent mode, or even when I'm busy, to look forward to a moment of peace.

It does not mean that I am not fond of socializing. I value communication and friendship, but people should realize that being on standby at all times does not equal a real connection. Sometimes, I need space to breathe, reflect, or exist undisturbed.

These days, I try to give myself phone-free hours. I tell my friends that if I don't reply right away, it's not personal—it's just me trying to recharge. Boundaries aren't selfish; they're necessary.

                                    

I'm afraid of hearing my phone ring - not because I don't care, but because I care too much and am exhausted.

I'm not running from connection—I'm just learning to redefine it. In the quiet moments when my phone doesn't ring, I can finally hear myself. And maybe that's the most important call of all.

What's your first reaction when your mobile phone rings? Is it expectation or pressure?



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