I followed up on one of your suggestions in the comments section of this post and came across this article that was helpful. It caught my attention because of the "email ninja" phrase as it encompasses all I aspire to become :). Check out the article if you have the chance. Here are the main tips I want to incorporate into my email life:
6. Have an external to-do system.
Many of the emails in my inbox are there because I have to do some type of activity or action item in order to respond or feel like I can archive or delete the email. But instead of using it's presence in my inbox as a reminder of what I need to do, I'm going to write it down on an external "To Do" list and archive the email.
8. Be liberal with the delete key.
This one is tough--especially when the email is from someone asking for my help. But the reality of the situation is that I've gotten to a point where I just can't respond personally to every photographer who emails me with a "quick question." I want to continue to keep my photographer resources section of my blog up-to-date so that photographers can find all they need there. I will also continue to answer f.a.q. throughout the year in designated blog posts. I really do desire to be as helpful as possible so this is a tough challenge for me. If you live nearby and need some help, the best thing to do is ask me out to lunch to pick my brain. I'm always up for that. And if you don't live nearby, feel free to keep emailing your questions. Best case I'll answer. Or you might see your answer in the form of a blog post. Otherwise I implore you for forgiveness and grace. I just have to be more liberal with the delete key in order to keep my sanity.
I hope you find these tips helpful as well! May we all aspire to be email ninjas :).
6. Have an external to-do system.
Many of the emails in my inbox are there because I have to do some type of activity or action item in order to respond or feel like I can archive or delete the email. But instead of using it's presence in my inbox as a reminder of what I need to do, I'm going to write it down on an external "To Do" list and archive the email.
8. Be liberal with the delete key.
This one is tough--especially when the email is from someone asking for my help. But the reality of the situation is that I've gotten to a point where I just can't respond personally to every photographer who emails me with a "quick question." I want to continue to keep my photographer resources section of my blog up-to-date so that photographers can find all they need there. I will also continue to answer f.a.q. throughout the year in designated blog posts. I really do desire to be as helpful as possible so this is a tough challenge for me. If you live nearby and need some help, the best thing to do is ask me out to lunch to pick my brain. I'm always up for that. And if you don't live nearby, feel free to keep emailing your questions. Best case I'll answer. Or you might see your answer in the form of a blog post. Otherwise I implore you for forgiveness and grace. I just have to be more liberal with the delete key in order to keep my sanity.
I hope you find these tips helpful as well! May we all aspire to be email ninjas :).
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