The Morning Email Habit: A Productivity Game-Changer?
When it comes to starting your day, there’s one habit that sparks intense debate: checking email first thing in the morning. While many argue it’s a productivity killer, I’m here to make the case for why it can be a game-changer.
The Importance of Timely Responses
In my experience, important and time-sensitive emails can arrive at any moment, and responding promptly can be the difference between success and disaster. Take, for instance, the time I forgot to submit my time sheets on Tuesdays, only to receive frantic emails from my manager on Wednesdays. If I hadn’t checked my email first thing, I would have been caught off guard, wasting valuable time and energy.
Avoiding Catastrophic Mistakes
In another instance, I accidentally broke the build of an application my team was working on, and it wasn’t until my early-riser colleagues sent me an urgent email the next morning that I realized the mistake. If I hadn’t checked my email, I would have been oblivious to the issue until someone tracked me down, causing unnecessary delays and stress.
Collaboration Across Time Zones
Working with a remote team leader in a different time zone presents its own set of challenges. To ensure seamless collaboration, I need to check my email first thing in the morning to catch up with my leader before their day ends. This allows me to receive crucial feedback and guidance on projects, avoiding costly mistakes and missteps.
Getting a Head Start
Beyond just responding to urgent emails, I’ve found that checking my email in the morning helps me prepare for the day ahead. I can prioritize my tasks, plan my approach, and even meditate on solutions to complex problems during my commute. This head start saves me time and energy in the long run, allowing me to dive into my work with focus and clarity.
Do What Works for You
Ultimately, the decision to check email in the morning is a personal one. While some may argue it’s a distraction, others may find it essential to their productivity and success. Don’t let productivity gurus dictate your habits – do what works best for your situation and role. By embracing this habit, you might just find that it becomes a crucial part of your morning routine.
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