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A new cultural phenomenon known as “friction-maxxing” is gaining traction as individuals seek to reclaim their relationship with technology and everyday tasks. Coined by Kathryn Jezer-Morton in a December 2025 essay for New York magazine’s The Cut, the term refers to the intentional choice of opting for slower, less convenient methods of completing tasks that technology often makes effortless.
Friction-maxxing encourages people to engage in activities that require more effort, such as shopping in-person instead of using apps like Instacart, or looking up words in a physical dictionary rather than relying on digital devices. The movement emphasizes the value of mundane experiences, like waiting in line or allowing one’s mind to wander, which are often seen as inefficiencies in our fast-paced, convenience-driven culture.
Jezer-Morton’s exploration of friction-maxxing stems from her observations about how modern conveniences can diminish patience and personal engagement. She argues that these “frictionless” experiences, marketed as liberating, can actually lead to feelings of alienation and disconnection from one’s own thoughts and surroundings. The practice is framed not as a productivity hack, but as a counterpoint to the efficiency-driven mindset prevalent in technology.
Responses to Jezer-Morton’s essay highlight a shared recognition of the emotional and psychological impacts of seamless convenience. Many readers expressed a longing for a deeper connection with their personal experiences, suggesting that friction-maxxing addresses a collective yearning for authenticity in an increasingly automated world.
As this concept continues to resonate, it prompts individuals to consider their daily choices and the ways technology shapes their lives. Friction-maxxing serves as a reminder that opting for the less convenient route can foster a richer engagement with both oneself and the surrounding environment.
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