In today’s world, you may find yourself overwhelmed by multiple text threads from various people in your life such as your family, your partner, or your child’s teacher. Keeping up with those messages can be challenging, but managing them might be more straightforward than you think.
Nick Leighton, host of the Were You Raised by Wolves? podcast, advises that texting is simply another communication method. The core principles of not wasting people’s time and being mindful of their feelings remain unchanged.
Addressing Common Texting Concerns
Leighton and Erica Dhawan, author of Digital Body Language: How to Build Trust and Connection, No Matter the Distance, provide guidance on applying etiquette rules to texting and tackle five common texting dilemmas.
Managing Text Volume
If you struggle with the number of texts you receive daily and delay responses, you’re not alone. Dhawan suggests we abandon the notion that immediate responses are necessary. The recipient may be busy with daily tasks and must prioritize their replies, similar to how emergency room doctors triage patients.
Urgent texts, like those concerning a child’s illness or a meeting cancellation, demand prompt action. Other messages, such as a party invitation requiring a response weeks later, can wait.
Dhawan advises not feeling ignored if someone doesn’t respond instantly.
Handling Excessive Social Media Videos
If your sister sends numerous social media videos as a form of affection but you lack time to watch them all, Dhawan suggests watching them at your convenience. A simple acknowledgment, such as saying “love these,” suffices.
If the volume becomes overwhelming, a phone call to express your enjoyment while discussing the plentiful nature of the videos might help.
Responding to Overlooked Messages
Leighton recommends addressing a forgotten text about lunch plans before asking a favor. A light message acknowledging the oversight, followed by setting up new plans before making your request, is advisable.
Encouraging Unresponsive Friends
When planning a concert outing, Dhawan suggests direct communication. Ask specific questions and set a clear response deadline. If responses remain absent, proceed as planned without dwelling.
Organizing Chaotic Group Chats
Dhawan emphasizes establishing etiquette in group chats by considering message relevance before sending. Utilizing emojis instead of texts like “ha ha ha” to minimize notifications is effective.
Leighton advises addressing maddening group chat behavior through polite, direct conversations.
For unnecessary conflicts, conduct separate one-on-one discussions, preserving group harmony. Use phone features such as muting, archiving, or exiting chats to manage notifications and maintain order.
In crowded group chats, participants often feel overwhelmed, akin to juggling multiple conversations simultaneously.
The podcast episode was produced by Clare Marie Schneider and edited by Meghan Keane along with visual editor Beck Harlan. Feedback is welcomed via voicemail at 202-216-9823 or email at [email protected]. Listen to Life Kit on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or subscribe to the newsletter. Follow on Instagram: @nprlifekit.
Leave a Reply