Not surprisingly, Americans are turning to home, family and friends to find the stability, comfort, and security that is missing during these turmultuous times, according to a study conducted by Wirthlin Worldwide.

According to the survey, since the attacks on the nation two months ago, 46% of Americans say they are more inclined to spend more time at home with loved ones; 30% watch TV with family and friends, as opposed to alone; 25% cook meals at home; and 22% read books.

Activities deemed less appealing to Americans include: planning vacations (39%); shopping for items you don't need, but desire (36%); and going to the movies or eating out in restaurants, (both 22%).

Consumers are looking to the familiar, such as well-known brands "that reconnect with times of earlier innocence." During these times customer service is very important, as shoppers are more likely to appreciate anything that will make them feel welcome and comfortable. Beware of marketing pitches, consumers will be less receptive to ad pitches that are edgy, ironic or "in your face."

Ralph Peters, former U.S. Army lieutenant colonel and author of "Fighting for the Future" has these words of wisdom for a nation in turmoil,"The great paradox of the 21st century is that, in this age of powerful technology, the biggest problems we face internationally are problems of the human soul."

No matter what the technology, it will never replace the communication ability of the human to human connection. Whether through voice, vision, or touch, there is no greater power known to man. Let's remember this as we move through our days filled with technology that connects, as well as, isolates people from each other. Without human interaction people merely become objects and cease to have a heart and soul. To understand others, we must take time to realize what influences them to act as they do.

Make a human connection today.

Published: November 20, 2001

Use of this article without permission is a violation of federal copyright laws.

Kathy Lamancusa is a trend strategis, professional speaker and author who tracks the forces that impact our lives. Over 1.6 million copies of Kathy's books are in print, and she has appeared on numerous television and radio shows including Oprah! She is a public speaker who can offer organizations entertaining and enlightening peeks into what is coming and what is shaping change so that they can better reach their own customer bases.