Whether we acknowledge it or not, most people have a “phone voice” — particularly at work. But, as the holiday approaches, and many people are headed home for the holidays, I wondered if people have a “home voice.”
I became aware that when I visit my parents, my speech tends to tighten up. I speak more clearly with crisp enunciation.I have always had pretty relaxed speech when not in a classroom or work environment, but it was only listening to some friends shift, quite dramatically from one speaking voice to another that I take note that I did the very same thing.
My version of relaxed speech is still pretty proper, but there’s a clear difference when in the company of my parents. I am certain that this is a bi-product of growing up with pretty strict rules about speech and grammar. I would, at times, get stopped mid-sentence to identify something I said incorrectly. Though frustrating at the time, I actually appreciate it now. I did reach a point where I realized that I was a little tight around my parents, and had of a moment of release where I said to myself, “You know what? I’m 40+ years old. This is just how I talk. I am not going to change or apologize for it.” I have, in large part, stuck to this release and am more relaxed around my parents now. However, I would be lying if I said that I don’t still watch my pronunciation when I call or visit. The only thing I don’t do around my parents is swear like a drunken pirate. That’s just a matter of respect.
What about you? Do you alter or tighten up your speaking voice when you’re in the company of your parents or elder family figures? If so, was this a product of you have a pretty straight line to walk in terms of your speech? Are you conscious that you do it?