Granted: The case for slow replies, and insights on facing fear and finding hope
Weekends and holidays shouldn’t be time to recover. They should be time to rejoice.
Burnout cultures exhaust us through the week and force us to recharge during our time off. Healthy cultures provide daily space to refuel.
Some perspectives that have helped me refuel lately:
1. Read: When a Doorbell’s Ring Means Hope (Charlotte Maya, NYT)
A heartwarming read about the surprising role of anonymous gestures in the wake of loss.
2. Listen: The Fear Facer (The Daily)
A riveting window into the psychology of overcoming anxiety—at a summer camp that teaches kids to conquer their fears.
3. Watch: How Everyday Interactions Shape Your Future (Mesmin Destin, TED)
A social psychologist reveals how small messages from mentors and role models can have a big impact on our lives.
From my desk
4. Read: Your Email Does Not Constitute My Emergency (NYT)
Apologizing for slow replies is a symptom of unrealistic demands in an always-on culture. How quickly people answer you is rarely a sign of how much they care about you. It’s usually a reflection of how much they have on their plate.
5. Listen:
Steve Martin on finding your authentic voice: Apple | Spotify | Transcript
Brené Brown and Simon Sinek on the leadership skills we need to build: Apple | Spotify | Transcript
Reconsidering your beliefs with Tara Westover: Apple | Spotify | Transcript
Chobani CEO Hamdi Ulukaya’s “anti-CEO playbook”: Apple | Spotify | Transcript
In solidarity,
Adam
Over the past few years, I’ve started instituting for myself the concept of “soft vacations”. I have 2 weeks “hard” vacation with my family, but I cordon off one week before and one week after during which I take no meetings or calls (save for the odd “emergency”), and use the time to empty the pipeline, so that when I leave on vacation, it is with a clear conscience. Doing so means I don’t have to “wind down” for 2-3-4 days before I actually feel on vacation. The week after is useful to catch up on emails from vacation, and gradually wind back up. It has been a game changer for me.
I often notice that my co-workers who respond to emails faster than anyone else often provide a less helpful response than those who respond later.