In the digital age, we are often pinged with hundreds of notifications per day, which can lead to an out-of-control inbox containing thousands of unread emails. It's a familiar scenario, and the stress it can bring is very real – but there is a way out. Here, we offer several tips on how you can hit refresh, helping you reduce anxiety and regain control of your digital life.
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Prioritise software updates: This is the first thing to do to make sure your devices have the latest security updates.
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Begin with the end in mind: This is the next best thing to reading all your emails, and there are three options – [a] mark them all as "read" (you’ll still be able to see them but your number will reset to zero), [b] wipe them all in a single delete (like a factory reset, everything goes to trash), or [c] move them to an archive folder (you won’t be able to see them, but you’ll be able to slowly make your way through them if you wish).
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Get rid of notifications: Out of sight, out of mind, as the saying goes. You will no longer receive alerts when new emails come in if you have notifications turned off, but the number of emails will increase again.
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Conduct regular maintenance: Block off specific times or days to go through your inbox manually and reply or delete as needed; unsubscribe from all email lists you never read.
- Don’t invite it in: To keep nuisance emails out of your inbox to begin with, set up an email you will never check. Use this to access sites that require you to give your email to proceed.
The above leadership tip...
was sent in response to a question from a participant on our acclaimed 10/10 leadership development and mentoring programme. Whether you're a first time manager or an experienced leader, straightforward, practical advice on best practice is hard to find. Until now. To find out how you, your team or your organisation can benefit, please contact us.