I’ve Got It In My Email Somewhere

Robby

We live in the Google generation. It is truly wonderful to be able to search for the truth when you’re arguing about trivial facts. However, the accessibility of search can also be our downfall. There are some pieces of information which shouldn’t be found by searching.

If you ever find yourself thinking I’ve got it in my email somewhere,  you might need to consider checking yourself into search rehab. What could be contained in your archives of correspondence that shouldn’t be somewhere else? If it’s a piece of contact information, it ought to be in your address book. If you’re looking for a document sent from a colleague, it should be filed away in the appropriate folder. If you want to confirm an appointment, just check your calendar. If you need to visit a particular web address, you should be looking in your bookmarks.

I would argue that any piece of information that comes to your inbox is destined to be stored somewhere else. That way, you can delete the original message and keep your email and your mind clear of clutter. We have dedicated systems for storing certain kinds of information. Shouldn’t we use them? Are there any types of information that you feel you should store in email indefinitely? How is your inbox?

Tags: appointments, calender, computer-skills, email, email management, goal-setting, inbox, mind-set, overwork, prioritization, schedule, schedule-meeting, self-policing, success, time-management, work stress, work-related stress