There is something so downright strange about how technology de-humanizes our interactions with each other. Perspective lost in communication.

First Round Capital runs a tremendous Mentorship program called Fast Track as a part of their community offering. Any manager aspiring to do better, give back and explore new perspectives should check it out. They do a great job connecting people and it is a really enjoyable experience.

But just yesterday, an e-mail update went out to the group alias and the thread got a little busy..

Enter Individual A:

🔥Zing! Pow! A couple important points to register:
1.) This is a program one must spend time filling out an application to join
2.) This is a VOLUNTEER program! To build community!

C’mon! What is it about sitting behind the curtain of e-mail that gives us the courage to relay an emotional response with a few quick finger missiles? Would this have happened in person? Perhaps. Would it have been as likely? Unlikely.

Let’s cast individual judgment of the e-mailer aside. It was sent right after lunch and things get crazy during afternoon digestion. And everyone is fighting a battle we know nothing about, or something like that.

But, a good reminder for oneself ☝️before one feels inclined to fire off that charged up e-mail to a colleague, direct report, or volunteer group to breathe…and kindly leave in drafts.