Who says I have to be available every moment of my day? Response time has shortened into almost no time at all.

When I was contemplating switching from a smartphone to a flip phone, I was worried about response time. Let’s say I need to Zelle something right away or check my email and there is no computer nearby? These concerns were on my mind along with others.

When I made the switch, I decided that it was okay to have a delayed response. I could Zelle someone when I got to a computer later that evening. Checking my email in the morning and the evening was also just fine.

What I did not expect was the smug satisfaction it gave me that I was my own boss. I was in control of my time and when I took care of things.

Looking around at the smartphone users I see, I notice a frenzied need to check for messages constantly and be available and beholden to everyone but themselves. The freedom I feel is wonderful and liberating. I can choose when I want to be available.