Instead of "be better", request "reply to my message within 24h".

Seven elements that turn a confused request into a clear respectful message that can be refused without breaking the relationship.

Frame your stance as: "When [behavior] I feel [feeling] because I need [value] and I request [ask]".

When triggered, ask self: "what unmet human need?".

Before asking a high-context colleague for something, reshape your direct ask into a polite hint.