Instant Everything

Bullet trains. Instant messaging. Microwave ovens. Moving walkways. The Internet. These are but a very few of the hundreds and probably thousands examples one can give to illustrate that we live in a fast-paced world. Our technological advances are such that so many things we want and need, including food, water, heat, light, television reception, connections with others, etc. can be gotten in the time it takes to press a button or flip a switch. Make no mistake, to live in a time and be surrounded by such convenience is wonderful. High-five to us for turning it all into a reality and for continuing to seek ways to make our current conveniences even more so.

One result of such advancement is that we are creating generations where "instant" is the norm. People want something and, presto, within relatively brief periods of time, in some cases seconds, they have it. Not only are more and more wanting what they want when they want it, but increasingly they area actually getting it. On the one hand, this is a positive part of reality as it helps ensure life styles that deemed fitting for the times in which we live. On the other, the expectation of "instant" that a growing number of folks have is making it harder for a number of communication efforts to be effective or successful.

One example revolves around teaching. Often for teachers to be effective at what they do requires them to have time to present concepts and facts to students in ways that are readily understood. Connecting with folks via public speeches is also more difficult because so many members of an audience are less patient than they used to be. They want their information now! They want the punch line now! Does this mean people today and more rude than they used to be? No. But it does suggest that due to our technological advances, people are becoming less inclined to hear and/or read lengthy communiques. Consequently, communicators need to adjust their strategies to address the evolving nature of people.