I hate answering the phone as well. My ringer is off 99% of the time When I look at my phone and see that no one called I think that is great. I feel relieved when I don't have messages. It's like I'd have a responsibility to call someone back and generally I don't want to do it. I usually call folks back when I know I have to go in a few minutes, like pick someone up or get to an appointment. I do that so I don't have to talk long, yet I called them back.

Literally the only time I answer my phone is when I call a nurse/doctor and they say they will call back in 5 minutes or so.

My thoughts (even though they are selfish) are "who in the heck has the right to interrupt me"? and leave me alone. I'm not on call and no folks do not have a right to call me all the time and expect me to answer. No I don't want to know that you are at the store and found a new dress, or that you are about to take your kid to xyz. It use to be that only doctors where on call like that. Answering my phone feels like I am on call. No I am not available when folks call and I call them at my leisure hoping they won't answer.