I started setting a 15-minute timer before replying to client texts

I was getting stressed about every single message, reading way too much into word choices and punctuation. Last month, I made a rule: when a text comes in, I set a timer for 15 minutes before I even think about a reply. It forces me to step back. In that time, I usually realize the message is straightforward and my initial over-analysis was pointless. I've avoided sending at least three overly defensive or anxious responses this way. Has anyone else tried a similar delay tactic for work communication?

3 comments

3 Comments

riley_jones1mo ago

Oh man, that's actually genius. I do the same thing with emails sometimes, just close the tab and come back later. It's crazy how your brain can spin up a whole crisis from a simple "Can you check this?" text. That 15 minute buffer totally makes sense to kill the panic. Might have to steal this idea for my own group chats, not just work.

-2

rosed3214d ago

Right? I've totally started doing this with my family chat too, it's wild how much stress it saves lol.

david_hayes1mo ago

Wait, you close email tabs without replying? That's a level of bravery I can't even imagine. My brain would just keep screaming about it until I dealt with it. The group chat trick is definitely the safer move for my sanity.