Here’s what you’re free to do.
As youre getting ready to go home for the night, he asks to exchange numbers.
Hes clearly interested, right?
Days go by, and you dont even get a read receipt.
Wait, is this guy leaving you on delivered?
It might make you overthink what you sent and if you said something wrong.
licensed marriage and family therapist based in Phoenix, Arizona
Feelings of insecurity and rejection might bubble up, getting more intense the longer the message goes unanswered.
How much leeway should we give alate reply to a textbefore it officially veers intoghostingterritory?
What does being left on delivered mean?
Did your message never go through?
Why would someone leave you on delivered?
Our preoccupation with message status is a sign of the times.
Additionally, consider the context of your message.
Our preoccupation with message status is a sign of the times, addsDr.
How long is too long to be left on delivered?
licensed marriage and family therapist based in Phoenix, Arizona
So, consider the circumstances individually before deciding that this person has no intention of responding.
(Also, they might have just forgotten and need a reminder!)
Is it worse to be left on delivered or read?
On one hand, its reassuring to know that the message has been opened.
But if the recipient doesnt respond right away, it can feel especially hurtful, says DeAlto.
If there is no response, we are left to fill in the blanks, Dr. Leno adds.
Should I say something to someone who left me on delivered?
In fact, our experts are divided on whether its a good idea or not.
Keep the message brief, friendly and casual, she suggests.
Something like, Hey, just wanted to check in and see how youre doing!
While its tempting to ask why they havent responded, DeAlmo advisesnotto mention the unread message.
This is already a person not receptive to engaging with you, Wood explains.
For whatever reason, they arent even in a place to simply read your message.
Instead of letting the uncertainty continue, Wood recommends shutting down any obsessive or unhealthy thoughts.
How to respond to being left on delivered?
Respect the messaging styles of others, even if this is not how you would personally respond.
Distract yourself
Our experts recommend waiting at least two daysif at allbefore sending a follow-up message.
If possible, avoid mentioning that they havent responded to your prior message.
Keep your message light and positive.
Just checking in to see how youre doing.
There are other guys who like running and dogs.
Its uncomfortable to risk showing someone attention without reciprocation, Wood explains.
Its not about eliminating or avoiding the discomfort, she explains.
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