For example, you should try to reply right away when someone asks you if they need to buy a ticket for an event later that night.
Some people can see when you open a message even if you didn’t respond, which could make them feel anxious. Wait to open your texts until you can respond to them. You can still usually read your messages in your notifications without opening the app.
While it’s okay to reply later if you’re actually busy, purposefully waiting to text somebody might feel disrespectful if you’re available. If you had to make the person wait for more than an hour, offer them an apology and explain what kept you from messaging them. [4] X Research source
For example, you could say something like, “Hey, I’m caught up right now, but I can chat tonight!
On top of taking the same amount of time, try to make your messages a similar length as the other person. That way, the conversation still feels balanced. [6] X Expert Source Imad JbaraDating Coach Expert Interview. 22 September 2021.
For example, you could say something like, “I am SO sorry work was such a mess today, but other than that I’ve been pretty good! I hope your day wasn’t as stressful as mine 😊”
If you know the person keeps their phone on silent or vibrate, then it might be okay to reply late at night so they see your message right when they wake up.
For example, you might say, “OMG I’m so sorry I missed this! I’ve just been really slammed the past few days. ”
You can always respond to an insightful question asking for time. For example, you could say something like, “I’m really going to have to think on that one! Can I get back to you in a few days?”
While more people aren’t bothered by a double text, constant messages or a wall of text could get intimidating to reply to. If the other person sends a lot of messages, set some texting boundaries.
It’s also okay to ghost someone if you feel unsafe when you’re talking to them. If you’ve met the person you’re talking to but you still aren’t interested in the conversation, be honest and tell the person directly. Waiting to reply or ghosting the person will only hurt their feelings more. [12] X Expert Source Christina Jay, NLPMatchmaker & Certified Life Coach Expert Interview. 3 March 2021.
