The 2-Second Disconnect

You’ve seen it—or done it yourself.

You’re talking with your spouse, sharing something small but real, when a notification buzzes. Without thinking, you glance down. “Just a second,” you tell yourself. But that tiny turn toward your screen sends a loud message: this matters more than you right now.

Researchers call it technoference—the everyday device interruptions that quietly chip away at connection. Even brief distractions predict lower satisfaction and more conflict. Why? Because attention is intimacy’s currency. Where your focus goes, your partner feels seen—or unseen.

The good news: presence is a muscle you can rebuild.

Action Tip:

This week, create one No-Phone Zone—maybe dinner, date night, or bedtime. Keep your phones out of reach and notice what happens when you trade notifications for real connection.

Tiny moments of attention build a lifetime of intimacy.

Tune into Episodes 99 and 100 of Marriage IQ to learn more!

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