ICYMI Get In Loser, We’re Friction-Maxxing
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Jan 14, 2026 Kathryn Jezer-Morton, writer of The Cut column Brooding and author of the viral piece 'In 2026, We Are Friction-Maxxing', argues for rebuilding our tolerance for everyday inconvenience. She names and defines “friction maxing.” They explore how tech erased small hurdles—from delivery apps to streaming—how that affects attention, relationships, parenting, privacy, and even creativity. Practical small-dose friction ideas are offered.
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Friction-Maxing Defined
- Friction-maxing means rebuilding tolerance for inconvenience to regain human capacities like attention and patience.
- Kathryn Jezer-Morton argues technology's removal of small barriers erodes our experiential capacity and emotional resilience.
Friction Reveals Humanity
- Experiencing boredom, anxiety, and uncertainty are core moments where our humanity surfaces.
- Jezer-Morton says these frictiony feelings let us become fully engaged persons, not just consumers of convenience.
Create Boredom To Build Attention
- Create pockets of boredom by removing devices so children face friction and develop attention.
- Jezer-Morton suggests hiding devices early and tolerating temporary discomfort to build reading habits.
