There something about logging in to your Gmail, expecting to see a letter from a friend or an associate that will make you feel important, isn’t it? I used to check my email every 2 minutes when I switched to Firefox browser and downloaded Google Toolbar Add On for the first time in my life.
I was so fascinated with the fact that I didn’t have to actually visit the inbox to be notified of new messages that I couldn’t stop myself from clicking on the red-white envelope icon under the bookmarks panel.
I used to “eagle-eye” that little Gmail envelope-waiting for it to switch and let me know that there’s a new message waiting for me to be read. I used to check my email while talking with people on Skype, watching YouTube videos, writing articles, writing blog posts, etc.
Long story short-I became a Gmail addict. When I wasn’t working-I still checked my email every ten minutes. It even got to a point where my girlfriend made me unplug the internet connection to have a talk with me.
Only now I realize how embarrassing that was. Moreover, after reading this article, that talks about how smoking pot lowers your IQ less then checking email, I realized how STUPID it was. I could have been better off smoking pot instead-that way I’d keep most of my IQ intact. What a tough lesson to learn…
Today, I work in focused 1.5 hour chunks and check my email once a day …OK, 2-5 times-but still, way less then I used to when I was a Gmail Addict.
I got rid of my horrible addiction. I learned to spend most of time being productive, improving my focus ability. And I am really glad that I do, because with the amount of projects I took upon myself-I am going to need every bit of productivity I can get.
The vast majority of the people who are looking to increase their productivity tend to neglect the fact that the biggest problems lies within their habits. We condition ourselves to act a certain way until we’re totally unconscious of it.
The first step to increasing your productivity is AWARENESS. Become aware of your behavior patterns and you’ll increase your productivity by 100%.
Question: What about You? Are You Addicted to Gmail? How many times a day do you check your Email? Leave a comment!
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I am always looking for ways to increase my productivity each day. Being conscious of how I am spending my time will allow me to assess the time wasters.
Also, I read a time management book several months ago that said to take 15 mins. and make a list of what needs to be done the next day. It gives you a plan of action.
Jan Middleton´s last blog ..How Many Backlinks Are Enough?
True Jan, to do lists are great, they keep you focused
Igor
Checking your mail can be just as addictive as checking AdSense, Analytics or new comments on your blog. You know it was only 10 minutes since you checked last, but there might be a new one…
Well, fortunately I also managed to get rid of those distractions. Today I only check AdSense and Analytics a few times a week since I know they wont change drastically between a day or two.
When it comes to mail, two times a day is enough to be able to answer everyone within a short timespan.
I’m actually working on a post to find these distractions and get rid of them. Maybe something you might want to check out later this week.
Stefan´s last blog ..Todoist Saves My Day
I’ll definitely look into that, Stefan. Good Luck
Igor