Name your one priority before opening email

Write the single most important task before checking your inbox.

Why it helps

Inboxes hand your attention to other people's agendas. Choosing first may help you protect what matters to you.

How to do it

1. Before opening email, ask what matters most today.
2. Write it on a note.
3. Work on it for ten minutes before checking messages.

Make it easier

Just say it aloud.

Make it harder

Delay email until that task is finished.