Turn off the message alert or visual message.
You wouldn't let mail carriers empty a bag of mail on your desk ten times a day and you certainly wouldn't let them ring a bell with each delivery. That's what happens if you read each e-mail when it arrives. Turn off the alert of visual message and take control of your email when it arrives.

Treat e-mail like regular mail.
Try to check your e-mail at regular times in the day (i.e. early morning, midday, and late afternoon). Even if you receive a high volume of e-mails, you shouldn't check your e-mail more than four times a day. Throw out the junk or respond immediately to those that require your attention.

Create short answers.
Short answers reduce the length and frequency of messages you receive. It's acceptable to send back a message that simply reads "Done" or "Thanks".

Delete diligently.
Most people save too many emails. Delete messages as soon as you have responded to them. If you have to save something, transfer it to a folder.

Use an auto reply.
Use an auto reply that tells people when you are out of the office. People may assume you've received and read urgent messages when if fact you're not even in the office.

Take control of your Inbox.
Subscribe to e-mail services selectively. Get a separate e-mail address for personal communication or one that you give just to key contacts, just as you would an unlisted phone number.

Use caution.
Sometimes it's too easy to hit the "Send" button and before you know it, you've sent words you will regret. In the end, it will take more time to do damage control than to let your emotions cool down before sending a message. Sarcasm or other attempts at humour can be misinterpreted. Remember that any e-mail you send could be forwarded and your message could go public.

Copyright 2004. Katherine Gibson. Excerpted from, Unclutter Your Life: Transforming Your Physical, Mental and Emotional Space, by Katherine Gibson. www.katherinegibson.com. Beyond Words Pub. 2004, ISBN: 1-5827-011