Manage Information Overload

You've been working around the clock to get that up-and-coming home based business running smoothly, when you check your email to find 50 e-mails screaming for your attention and everyone wanting a response, now!

Sound familiar?

Here are some of tips to help keep you afloat in this information-heavy age

* Be ruthless in filtering information.
Keep what is absolutely relevant and delete everything else. Don't hoard. It is the "just in case" syndrome that contributes to information overload

* Use and optimize organizational tools.
Make use of functions accompanying e-mail and Internet programs (e.g. Outlook Express) that allow you to organize, sort, automate, mark and perform other functions to make life easier. For example, tag "follow up" flags to e-mail messages as reminders.

* Create and use smart filing systems.
Create filing systems for both electronic and hard copy documents and sort regularly to avoid pile-ups. Remember, ten minutes spent filing smartly now can prevent a frustrating two-hour search next month.

* Minimize clicking "cc" and "Forward."
We all know how frustrating it can be to sift through unnecessary e-mails (frequently jokes). Avoid contributing to the cycle.

* Take time for family and friends.
Running a home based business can be extremely exhausting at times. Be sure to always surround yourself with people that are there to cheer you o­n. There is nothing better than the feeling of those you love pushing you to do better!

* Perform efficient Web searches.
Familiarize yourself with search engines and directories to avoid millions of results. Set up folders and sub-folders to compile bookmarks/favorites systematically for future use.

For an o­n-line tutorial o­n OUTLOOK 2000 use this link:
http://ipr.iupui.edu/outlook/ or http://www.publicworks.ab.ca/outlook_tutorial.htm

For a tutorial download direct from Microsoft: http://www.microsoft.com/Education/O2kTutorial.aspx

Everyone that runs a home based business will at some point feel like they are in overload sequence. Be sure to sit back, relax and assess the situation. A business flows much smoother when the captain is in charge!

BIZOPZ BOB

BIZOPZ BOB is a home business entrepreneur with a number of successful ventures on the go.
He has an extensive business background and has ventured into the on-line community with a passion.
While maintaining healthy skepticism, he explores many different opportunities and reports on his endeavors, good or bad.
He tends to shoot straight; aim high and load for bear!

You can contact Bob at:http://bizopz-online.com