Don't rush users

Time pressure is a significant anxiety trigger in digital interfaces, affecting user decision-making and emotional well-being. Countdown timers, limited-time offers, and artificially rushed experiences can create unnecessary stress, particularly for users prone to anxiety. While these tactics might drive conversions for some users, they can alienate others and create negative associations with the product.

Artificial time constraints often appear during checkout processes, booking flows, or limited-time offers. These design patterns can trigger fight-or-flight responses, leading to hasty decisions or task abandonment. Users experiencing anxiety may need extra time to review their choices, double-check information, or build confidence in their decisions. Pressuring them contradicts the principles of inclusive design.

Implement flexible timeouts and clearly communicate any genuine time constraints, such as ticket availability or reservation holds. If time limits are necessary, like in the case of entering one-time passwords, provide clear reasons and generous windows for completion. Also, consider offering options to extend time limits or save progress, allowing users to complete tasks at their own pace.^[1]