Often, the problems that we face are very complex. However, the solutions are usually simple. This solution to a growing problem is so simple, it will surprise you.

The 10 Second Rule

This solution is so simple, it's scary, but it works. First, check your e-mail at intervals and don't keep it up all day long. Constantly checking your e-mail is a distraction, at best, and a form of neurosis, at worst. I've said it before and I'll say it again, Extreme Multi-Tasking is a Mental Disorder (why would anyone in their right mind type on their CrackBerry while driving?). I recommend the following time table: upon arrival, 10 a.m., 2 p.m., and 1 hour before departure.

Second, when you process your messages, allow no more than 10 seconds per message to filter. There are only three actions that you should consider in this step. I call them the Triple D.

1. Do - If it will take less than 2 minutes to resolve, do it right away.

2. Delegate - The Bubble Planner has an excellent tracking tool for items that you have empowered someone else to complete. Here's a sample of one of the forms.

3. Delay - If it will take longer than 2 minutes, file it in an action folder, add it to your Bubble List, and move onto the next message.