In Defense of Slow Communication

I love computer science, though I don’t necessarily love computers. That itself is a blog post for another day. What I don’t love about computers — or more specifically, our current use of them — is their use as a constant interruption device. There are many great advantages to the speed and precision of communication with technology today; the collateral damage of our current use of this superpower is our own intention and focus.

There is plenty of evidence to show us that interruptions kill our focus. Being reactive is hardly energizing, but there’s a constant incentive for people and apps to be grabbing our attention. This stresses not only our personal wellbeing but also our relationships, as it becomes more commonplace in our personal and work communications to expect an immediate response.

I am not alone in this proposal, but I shall iterate it here: We can change this norm. Say ‘NO!’ to interruptions! The idea that all texts should be replied to in 5 minutes is garbage, as is the idea that emails should be replied to within the hour. There are always exceptions, but the problem I see is that too many forms of communication fall into the “emergency” bucket.

Here are some ways you can try to communicate slow:

• When you’re engaged in an activity (a project at work, watching a movie with a friend) - put your phone on Do Not Disturb, close slack, close your email tab, just be there and focus.

• Do not apologize for responding ‘late’, especially if ‘late’ means a few hours or even (gasp) two days.

• Send a handwritten letter or card to a friend.

• Hold a dinner party or salon with friends to discuss an issue you’re interested in, instead of discussing it on social media.

There are many advantages to using social media, texting, phones, Slack, and email. There are certainly times when these are the best tools for the job. But before you communicate your next item, just consider — can I communicate this slowly? Go ahead, be a rebel.