Does texting make you feel anxious? There are a lot of reasons why you might experience texting anxiety. Whether you’re stressed about responding to countless messages, or you’re sweating about delayed responses from a lover…the anxiety you’re experiencing is normal.

That doesn’t make it any easier to deal with. We live in a day and age where our phones have way too much power over us. Sometimes, it’s unclear whether we own our devices, or they own us.

The tricky part about dealing with texting anxiety is that we need our phones. We can’t quit them cold turkey like cigarettes.

So how can you stop fretting over misinterpreted texts? And how can you avoid that sinking feeling in your stomach when a text goes unread?

Not to worry! There are ways to overcome texting anxiety that don’t involve hiding your phone in the freezer, or deleting every social app.

Read on for 5 smart ways to deal with texting anxiety.

1. Create delayed notifications

Did you know that you can get notification summaries at specific times of the day? Yep, you can tailor your notification settings to each app.

For example, you can set your Instagram notification schedule to 3 times per day. Meanwhile you can set Facebook and WhatsApp to just once per day—it’s up to you!

Although you’ll still get some unwanted texts, at least you get to decide when your train of thought gets interrupted by a text from your ex.

Address ambiguity

Not 100% sure how to interpret someone’s text? It’s better to just straight-up ask them than to make assumptions.

After all, text misunderstandings are incredibly common. Many a romantic relationship have been nipped in the bud because of misinterpreted texts.

Why not bypass the confusion and heartache and just ask what exactly they meant with that rolling eyes emoji? 🙄

Set boundaries

I know “boundaries” isn’t a very sexy word. But it’s a tried and true way to take your power back. You should be in control of your phone and how you use it, not the other way around.

This means YOU can decide when you read and answer messages.

Sure, some messages from family and bosses may require immediate attention. But even important messages can usually wait while you meditate, exercise and do other self-care activities to keep your sanity.

Have important conversations IRL

There are some things that can’t be conveyed properly via text. Situations that involve conflict and/or difficult emotions deserve face-to-face discussions.

How do you know when to save a conversation for real life? If it’s something that’s important to you and there’s a chance for misunderstandings, opt to talk it out.

Use healthy distractions

You don’t have to sit and marinate in feelings of anxiety. Sure, some self-reflection is good. But sometimes the best thing to do is to create healthy distractions that don’t involve devices.

Even if you’re introverted like me, connecting with people in real life is one of the best ways to forget about your texting troubles. Decide to be present with whomever you’re with and enjoy the moment.

You’re in control

Remember, this is your life! It doesn’t make sense to let three hovering dots determine how you feel. You can take control of your phone and your life by dealing with texting anxiety head-on.

By the way, I offer more insights and tips to live your best introvert life in my newsletter. Grab my free Introvert Connection Guide and you’ll also get access to other innie resources to gain confidence and make friends.

Xo,

Michaela