Here is a quick and simple tip for you regarding emails! Oftentimes, I’m asked about paper, emails and the sort and I usually answer with something like… “Well, this is what works for me…” Honestly, there’s not a one size fits all approach and I don’t always know what will work well for you, it may be a trial and error process for you. So, I think the best advice I can give you, is to start somewhere and adjust if it’s not working.
Here is how I handle EMAIL.
I have 2 accounts that I use, one for personal and one for business. I check them both EVERY day, sometimes MANY times a day. My consistent goal is to have an EMPTY inbox. Now, that doesn’t always happen, because there are things I need to read/take care of that I can’t right away. So, I leave those in my Inbox as a reminder that they still need some sort of action.
I IMMEDIATELY file something into the appropriate folder once I have completed either the conversation, or task associated. I NEVER leave something in my Inbox to reference later. I can always search for it later, if needed. I also IMMEDIATELY delete junk emails, advertisements that don’t catch my attention as necessary.
If you’re overwhelmed by emails, I would suggest you work a little every day to clear out the Inbox, make a goal of deleting and/or filing ALL the emails that don’t still need action. Once your Inbox is empty (this may take you a few days, weeks or months, a little at a time) then make a habit of clearing out your Inbox, so you can maintain the order!
Happy deleting, sorting and maintaining!
