Seriously, though, it’s disappointing that people so often forget their manners when commenting on something online. What does it hurt to lead with “I liked X and Y, but here’s something I think could be improved.”

I feel you’ve got something good here. Occasionally I’m interested in someone’s first impressions of something, but you’re right that usually it’s just surface thoughts, and possibly stems from a misunderstanding of the work.

At the same time, as soon as I get my grubby little mitts on something new, those first 24 hours are when I’m most passionate about absorbing it, and piecing it together in my head. I feel, like maybe, I’m better than most people at examining any misgivings that I come across, rather than gesturing wildly with them on the internet immediately.

So after I’m done smelling that new-book smell, heady with ink and fresh paper, and I’ve decided where I’ll be keeping it safe from my Cats/Dogs/Toddler/Misadventure and I dig in, I’ll do my best to let anything I put out there simmer for a while.

On the other end of the spectrum, I suggest a 24-hour vacation rule. Like if you’ve missed the latest episode of your favorite show, and want to stay away from spoilers. After all, you’ve earned it. Steer clear of the world, and relax for a bit. Bask in your accomplishment, for surely, that’s exactly what it is. Internet off, phone entrusted to someone who can handle emergencies, and any other email handling device banished.

We’ll call it a team effort.

Now give me that irony point, and I’ll avaunt.

Honestly though, asking the land of “My opinion is important, listen to it NOW!” to show restraint and wait seems kind of like asking the sun not to rise… So – counter-suggestion (and something I’ll think about if I ever start being 1/10th as productive as you): Take a day off from the internet. Celebrate the release of a new work by stepping back and taking a day away from email, the webs, and the new product. Maybe physical projects if GR can’t spare you, or take the family to a museum, a park, something. Game with friends, but leave talk of the new product for another day.

Shake it off, Boss.