Some users may find it quite difficult to transition from the input method of writing/typing to speaking/dictating. When we use a keyboard to type, this non-verbal input is much more mechanical, requiring us to engage our thoughts, hands and fingers in order to type and retype what we are thinking.
Over time this can take a toll on wrists and arms, leading to RSI or carpal tunnel syndrome as a result of using this skill. A keyboard was the substitute for a typewriter, which was a substitute for writing, all of which do not come naturally to the human body. These learned QWERTY skills enable us to express ourselves, keep records and communicate more effectively, however even if you use a light keyboard – none of these movements do not come as naturally to us as speaking.
Speech is a much more organic input because from the moment we are born, we are essentially on the road to learning a language in order to communicate, learn and socialise. Our vocal cords may not be naturally attuned to speaking the whole day (depending who you ask!) but this process of speaking rather than writing has fewer mechanical aspects. While you could probably dictate until you became hoarse, it seems much easier for someone to type until it hurts.
Learning to write, converting to typing on a keyboard and then grasping the ability to compose your thoughts out loud all require practice. While it’s easy enough to pick up the telephone and have a conversation, it’s much trickier to formalise your thoughts into “written” format. The tendency is for us to be slightly more casual when we are dictating. Using WhatsApp more prevalently to send voice notes, we should be getting to a more comfortable with the art of simply being able to spout forth.
If you are struggling to make the leap, it can be a good idea to start using Dragon to dictate emails. If this is cause for consternation, perhaps lightening the types of emails would be even more conducive to making the adjustment. Instead of starting off with an email about a business merger, perhaps you can send a friend a test email or use the opportunity to compose a long overdue catch up email to surprise a family member.
Taking the time to adjust to the idea of stringing phrases together in order to create emails and documents will eventually get to the point that it seems silly to do anything other than dictate. Allocate your morning session of checking your inbox and replying, deleting or forwarding email to become more adept and comfortable with using a voice to do most of the tasks on your computer. As we always say, the fastest way as typically the best way, so if it’s easier just to click or type a key on your keyboard, go right ahead.