Introduction

The modern world offers us a multitude of digital tools to keep us constantly connected. However, this hyper-connection can often result in a feeling of being overwhelmed by the incessant flow of emails and information, hindering our productivity and well-being Here’s a simple strategy for getting to grips with this aspect of our professional and personal lives.

The right to disconnect

First of all, did you know that the right to disconnect was introduced in Belgium in April 2023? The issue of time management and well-being at work has become crucial for legislators. Although the law does not impose specific penalties for non-compliance, many companies recognise the importance of safeguarding the well-being of their employees by limiting digital intrusions outside working hours.

The negative effects of hyperresponsiveness

One of the most common habits, and one that is detrimental to our productivity, is constantly checking our inbox. Whether at work, at home or even on the move, incessant notifications on our mobile devices encourage us to check our e-mails at any time of day. This practice fragments our concentration and insidiously creates unnecessary stress.

The ‘scary hour’ method: a remedy for e-mail stress

To counter this e-mail dictatorship, we recommend adopting a more structured and disciplined approach. Treat your inbox like a traditional letterbox: set yourself specific times to consult it, just as you would to collect your physical mail. By grouping your e-mail consultation sessions together, you’ll save precious time and keep your mind calmer and more focused.

Testimonials and proof of effectiveness

Studies have shown that limiting e-mail interruptions improves productivity and reduces stress. By setting yourself a specific time slot for e-mail management, you can concentrate fully on your important tasks without being constantly interrupted. This approach is often compared to the ‘scary hour’ method for its ability to reduce stress. It helps you save time and regain a sense of control over your day. The ‘scary hour’ is, in fact, a period that you set in your diary during which you deal with all the tasks that you don’t like to do and that you tend to put off until the next day.

Practical strategies for applying the ‘scary hour’

Many professionals testify to the benefits of this approach. By setting specific times for dealing with their e-mails, they have seen a significant improvement in their efficiency and well-being at work. By following their example, you can gradually reduce the number of times you check your e-mails. Test this frequency for a few days until you reach the optimum frequency for you. I’d also advise you to warn your contacts. You can do this either via your e-mail signature, or by setting up an automatic reply, informing your contact of the times you have set for processing your e-mails. So they won’t be expecting an immediate response. And if the request is really urgent, your contact will be free to choose another medium, such as the telephone, to contact you.

Conclusion

In conclusion, effective email management is essential to optimising your productivity and preserving your mental health in an ever-changing digital world. By adopting a structured and disciplined approach, you can master this facet of your professional and personal life. This will free you from unnecessary stress and give you the opportunity to concentrate on what really matters, what’s essential to you.

Be So Organised !