Lying in my notes app are several drafts of text messages. I often plan out messages to people in my notes in advance to either have a chance to reflect on my words or to ensure that my message is interpreted correctly. This practice of drafted out texts can be helpful in a variety of ways.

More often than not, my reason for writing out texts before I send them is a result of overthinking. Even while talking to people I know, I worry how I may sound or be interpreted over text. This causes me to sometimes draft out even very mundane text before sending.

In some cases, I feel it is necessary to write it out before sending. I find that sometimes replying over text while you’re emotional or in the heat of the moment is not always the best idea. Instances like this, I type it out in my notes, let it marinate for a little, then proceed. This allows for some time to process and reflect before responding.

In addition, when the message is important or is to an authority figure, it may be helpful to plan it out in advance and possibly revise it. For example, one draft I have in my notes app was to inform my manager at my old job that I was resigning. Although I definitely should have done this in person, at least I was able to send a respectful and appreciative message over text.

There is also the worry while texting someone that my tone or meaning is being misinterpreted over text. The advantage that in-person interaction has over texting is that you have things like body language and tone of voice to convey your message. Texting lacks the emotional context that is important for understanding while communicating. This aspect of texting often makes me hesitant to send a message.

Although some of the drafts of the text messages from my notes app are embarrassing, I think the practice of planning an important message is helpful.