Hello there,
If you’re here, you’re no doubt curious about how I’m working with email, and/or perhaps wondering how it might impact my reply to an email you recently sent to me.  I’ve written this page to help me express what’s happening in my world, and help gently support healthy expectations which, hopefully, will contribute to stronger relationships and foster greater sustainability.

I appreciate any time you take to read this. I think it will be helpful.

The level of volume in my email is increasing steadily. I imagine that perhaps yours is too. In the past, I’ve been pretty determined to reply to every email (that’s not spam), and due to a variety of circumstances, including my health, I’m finding it harder and harder to keep up.

I’m in a pickle, because as much as it pains my heart to not reply, in order to maintain my health, I really can’t afford to reply like I have in the past. So, I need to shift my approach and what you’ll see below are a few things that I’m offering, practicing, thinking about, or encouraging:

Two Phrases for Everyone

No Reply Necessary (NRN) – this phrases is perfectly acceptable to include in an email, or even in your subject line. And, it’s not an order, but a request, basically giving the receiver permission to reply or not, with no need for concern.

Please Reply – This just let’s me know that you do wish for a reply so that I’m clear. Totally fine. I will do so as soon as I’m humanly able.

Anyone is free to use these phrases in emails you send to me. You have blanket permission to use in any way that befits you.

For Current Clients (and those inquiring to become clients)
I will always reply to your emails, unless you explicitly say NRN in your email. I prioritize your emails. And, if what you need is urgent, it’s especially helpful if you let me know that.

If You Reply to a Heart Note
Of all the many emails I receive, your notes are some of my most cherished. Please keep sending them. They mean so much to me. I will try my best to reply but sometimes it can take weeks, and sometimes I just wont be able to. Please know, regardless, I read every one, and appreciate every bit of feedback you share with me. (Not sure what Heart Notes are? Sign up here.)

Friends, Loved One(s), Close Business Associates
I’m guessing we know each other well enough that I’ll know when I can be brief or not. Please continue to ping me if you haven’t heard back from me in a few business days. Otherwise, i promise I’ll be getting back to you just ASAIPC – I thank you for your patience.

If you’re emailing me and we are not acquainted
Please be clear in your email about what you are needing, offering, sharing, etc. If/how you’d like me to respond, and if there’s a deadline or preference on when I reply. I can’t promise anything, but we’ll see. I’ll do my best, if what I’m reading sounds like it could be mutually beneficial. If you are trying to sell me on your services, please do not send more than one email. I rarely “miss” an email so you don’t need to follow-up five times. If you do, I guarantee it’s a waste of both of our time. If I’m interested, I’ll follow-up – promise.

Thank you for reading if you got this far. If you have questions, please ask. I’m also welcome to feedback on this message.

I appreciate you.

With every good wish,