Clean Your Inbox Too

Full Inbox
Last week, I discussed the importance of cleaning your desk. The rule for keeping a clean desk holds true for the physical inbox on your desk too (and your email inbox as well). First, if you do not have an inbox on your desk, make sure you get one. Second, I highly recommend keeping an inbox for the collection of documents and related materials both at work and home. Many people find an inbox in the kitchen is helpful too. Third, before you leave work for the day, go through the entire inbox and process each paper. It is not meant to be used as a storage bin. Fourth, remember this simple rule: if you do not need it, throw it away. Finally, I suggest doing this daily for your home inbox too, or, at minimum, once a week.