Are you constantly drowning in a sea of lengthy emails?
Do you find yourself scrolling endlessly, trying to extract the key information?
If you’re neurodiverse, with ADHD or dyslexia this struggle can be even more pronounced. As a neurodiversity coach, I’ve noticed a common theme: the overwhelming nature of long emails, especially for those with ADHD, dyslexia, or autism.
Let me share a little about my own experience.
My husband and I travel frequently, which is a fantastic opportunity, but it also means my routine and schedule aren’t always consistent. This sometimes leads to an overflowing inbox.
And what I’ve discovered is that many people love sending incredibly detailed emails. While this is a valid form of expression, it can be challenging for recipients, especially those with processing differences.
For me, I find if an email is too long, I will avoid it by saying, “I’ll read that later” which doesn’t always happen as soon as it should.
I want to appreciate all forms of communication and be inclusive to those person’s who communicate best through words.
That’s where the brilliance of “TLDR” comes in. For those unfamiliar, it stands for “Too Long; Didn’t Read.”
It’s a lighthearted way to acknowledge that a message is excessively long and that the reader may have skipped parts or used a summary.
Now, sending long emails isn’t inherently bad. Some people process information by writing extensively, ensuring they capture every detail.
This can be a real gift in many contexts. However, for neurodiverse individuals, receiving these lengthy messages can be overwhelming. The sheer volume of text can make it difficult to focus, extract key information, and respond efficiently.
Here are some key takeaways and tips for navigating this common challenge:
- Acknowledge the Difference: Recognize that not everyone processes information the same way. What works for one person might be challenging for another.
- Open Communication: If you frequently find yourself thinking “TLDR,” consider having a conversation with the sender. Gently explain that concise communication is often more effective for you.
- Embrace Technology: There are fantastic tools available, including AI-powered email summary services, that can quickly condense long messages into digestible summaries. I personally use these services and highly recommend them.
- Manage Expectations: If you send long emails, be mindful that recipients might not respond instantly. They might be processing the information or using a summary tool. It will take time to respond.
- Neurodiversity and Email Overload: If you’re neurodiverse and struggle with email, you’re not alone. It’s a common challenge. Using tools, communicating your needs, and establishing clear boundaries can make a significant difference.
The key message here is that it’s okay to need information presented concisely. It’s also important to be understanding of those who communicate in a more detailed way. The goal is to find a balance that works for everyone.
So, if you find yourself thinking “TLDR” more often than you’d like, remember you have options. Whether it’s a conversation, a helpful tool, or a combination of both, taking action can significantly reduce email-related stress and improve communication for everyone involved.
Thanks for learning more about the many ways we are all different thinkers,
JoyGenea