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Exercise #956: Self Knowledge
Posted 8/19/22
I find I use some "words" in text or instant message that I never say in real life conversation. I don't mean acronyms like LOL or BTW . . . though they aren't exactly real words, either.
I think I made them up to fill a need where an emoji just can't do the job. I'll share two here since I probably will never write to this Exercise:
1. Heya. I use this as a greeting which is shorter than "Good Morning" and not as curt as "Hey," and allows the recipient to be engaged in screen-sharing without my interruption giving away anything or being inappropriate. (I can't tell you how many times I've seen an instant message pop up on a co-worker's screen and I've had instant access to information I shouldn't have.)
2. Urk. I use this as a general cross between "Seriously? What are they thinking?" and "OMG That is going to so so so much increase my workload." Also used to represent those things for the person who is telling me about some change or mistake they're dealing with ("increase to your workload" and "I totally understand").
What do these two non-words say about me?
For today's exercise, think about similar things you might type. What is it? Why do you use it? Does everyone you know recognize it or is it specific to only members of your "inner circle?"
If you don't think you have one, try words that you made up which you do use in conversation (I have a few of those, too). When you're done remembering, write!
As always, you may choose to show a character answering this exercise instead.
Critiquers, you might try answering these questions for critiquing the piece:
* Did you catch any spelling errors or other standard proofreading items? If so, note them for the author.
* Could you relate to this piece? Why or why not?
Word limit: 1200
Please use the subject line:
SUB: Exercise #956/yourname
Why this is a self-knowledge exercise: Seeing where we create our own shortcuts may lead to a bit more understanding about how we work.
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