11
Only Check Emails Three Times a Day
Inbox Discipline
The constant inflow of emails can be overwhelming, often leading us to spend more time in our inboxes than on our actual work. This week’s habit challenges us to break free from and reclaim our productivity.
Habit of the week:
Only Check Emails Three Times a Day
This week, we're challenging the constant pull of our inboxes with a simple yet powerful habit: limiting email checks to three times daily. Setting specific times for reading and responding to emails can significantly boost your productivity and focus while reducing stress and distraction.
Why it matters:
The frequent interruption of checking emails can fragment your concentration, pulling you away from deep work necessary for meaningful progress in your projects. Consolidating email checks reduces these interruptions, allowing for sustained periods of focus and a more organized approach to managing your communications.
Quick Start Guide:
- Decide on Three Specific Times: Morning, midday, and late afternoon are optimal times to check your inbox.
- Stick to Your Schedule: Resist the urge to check emails outside your designated times.
- Utilize free email tools like CloudHQ to create a FOCUS tab so you don't see incoming emails hitting your inbox.
Cami's Tips
- Spend the first few minutes of each email session prioritizing messages—reply to the most critical ones first.
- Create “return” labels based on urgency in your email and place all emails and sort accordingly when checking emails.
- Gradually adjust your times based on work patterns and email volume for optimal efficiency.
- Of course, an emergency email, "My website is down," is always an exception.
- Train your clients by only responding in your email time blocks. If you need to respond, delay the email delivery to match your emailing schedule using a tool like MixMax.
Routine Checkpoint:
Remember, if necessary, tweak the times you check your email to find what works best for you.
After a week of practicing this habit, reflect on the changes in your productivity and stress levels. You may have more control over your day, and essential tasks receive the attention they deserve.
What's Your Take?
Have you tried restricting your email checks to three times a day? How has this approach impacted your workday? Please share your experiences and thoughts using #HabitsWP and join our community discussion!
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about the author
Cami MacNamara is a web designer and owner of WebCami LLC, a Seattle-based agency since 2002. She created Web Designer Habits to help solopreneurs build smarter systems, stay productive, and run a business that works for them.