Lotus Work At Home Mums Blog

Are you a slave to email?

By Leigh Hunt on August 7th, 2007

Since moving house I’ve been working on streamlining my businesses so that I can focus on what I feel most passionate about, the growth of Lotus, writing, and of course spending time doing the things I love with my family.  And already I’m reeping the rewards.

One of the major changes I’ve made to my working practice is quite simple.  I only check email twice a day.  I was surprised at how challenging this was at first, but today I managed it, quite comfortably.  Wahey!  Probably doesn’t sound like a very big deal, but I used to have my email set to collect new messages every five minutes.  As I’m sure you’ll agree, so many interruptions don’t help you keep focused!

Limiting email checks to twice a day has helped me to stay on track with important tasks without getting side tracked.  This gives me more time to work ON my business, moving it and my life forward.  And what’s amazing is that when I do check my email, I’m usually done and dusted within half an hour, job done!  What have I been doing all this time!!! LOL!

What’s also great is that I can use some of the extra time I’ve created to have fun with my family, all with a real sense of achievement and contentment.  Now, this is what work/life balance is all about!

So, if like me, you’re a slave to your email, limit yourself to twice a day and see what impact it has on YOUR life. 

Prepare to be amazed…

Comments

#1 - By Edith Nkwocha on August 9th, 2007 at 11:18 AM

Leigh, I’m a translator by profession so I do have to access my emails very, very often.  However, recently I’ve been telling myself that there must be a better way.  After reading your post I’m definitely convinced that choosing specific times of the day to check emails is a step in the right direction.  Thanks for the info.

#2 - By Leigh Hunt on August 9th, 2007 at 12:58 PM

Hi Edith

Thanks for your comment

I did find it really strange at first.  I liken the feeling to the first few days of a holiday when you know you should feel relaxed but it takes a while for your mind to catch up and actually wind down!  I felt almost lost, but now that I’m settled into the routine it’s made my day SO much more productive.  Try it, I challenge you! But seriously, if you do I’d love to know how you get on. 

Warm regards

Leigh

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