Could Sending Better Emails Reduce Stress and Improve Productivity?

Emails are a source of stress and anxiety for many of us. It’s easy to blame the high volume of incoming emails we receive. Managing them can feel like a constant battle, although we can win by adopting practices like my Sustainable Approach to Inbox Zero.

This isn’t enough, though. What about the emails you send? Are they contributing to your stress? What if sending better emails could reduce stress and improve productivity? I believe it can, and in this article, I’ll explain why—and how you can start sending better emails today.

What Does a Good Email Look Like?

Let’s start by thinking about what makes a good email. I appreciate what follows is subjective, but I believe a good email:

• Has a clear subject line so the reader knows what the email is about and indicates whether an email is for information only or requires action.
• Contains everything it needs to (I’d rather have one longer email than several on the same topic).
• Includes the bottom line up front (BLUF).
• Is clear, concise (no waffle), professional in tone, and well-organised, using sub-headings to break up the text as needed.
• Only uses the CC (carbon copy), BCC (blind…