How much clutter do you have in your inbox?  By clutter I mean ‘stuff’ you know you should read or reply to, but you’re not sure when you’ll find the time or the inclination to do it …

The worrying thing about ‘stuff’ is that it builds up – it’s like a dirty disease that multiplies and in the end your inbox resembles a dusty archiving system that seems to serve only one purpose – to give you a big headache!

Email’s a fantastic tool when it’s used smartly but it’s detrimental when it’s relied on as a key source of communication. So like any bad habit, it’s time to take control of this vice before it controls you by following this simple plan: –

1.  Don’t Con Yourself With Folders & Rules!

Having multiple ‘smart’ mailboxes that divert emails into separate folders does not make you more productive, it simply aids procrastination.  Instead of spending time setting up complex rules and folders, simply deal with the messages in your inbox now and eliminate filing them altogether!

2.  Unsubscribe

How many newsletters, updates and ezines do you receive a week?  And how many do you actually read and get value from?  Your life, career and business WON’T fall apart if you hit unsubscribe.  Having the motto ‘I MIGHT need it’ isn’t smart thinking so ditch what you don’t need right now and only focus on what’s important.

3.  Pick Up The Phone

This ones simple – relationships and effective communication are fundamental in any area of life.  But both can be horribly affected by using inappropriate email or relying on cyberspace as being the only form of communication. So before you practice your 100wpm typing speed consider whether picking up the phone might be a more effective medium?  It’s easy, it’s reliable, and it’ll give your inbox a well deserved break!

If you would like to find out more about how coaching can help you manage your time smartly book your free 30-minute coaching consultation now.  Simply click here to schedule your appointment.