In 2012, a survey reported that email overload could be a cause of stress. But rest assured (or not), it wouldn't ultimately be so much the number of emails received as the way you manage your emails that would play on your stress.
This study, led by Dr Richard McKinnon of the Future Work Centre, was presented at the annual meeting of the British Psychological Society's Division of Occupational Psychology in Nottingham. The study conducted sought to find out whether certain factors, such as technology, behavior or even personality, could influence the pressure felt when receiving an email.
The Future Work Center therefore questioned more than 2000 people working in different fields on the management of their e-mails. More than 62% of them say they keep their mailbox open all day. And more than half of respondents say they allow push notifications, alerting them when a new email arrives. The study also finds that checking your emails when you wake up and at bedtime would increase stress, but also pressure. Dr. McKinnon explains:“Our research shows that email is a double-edged sword. Even though they are valuable communication tools. »
The director of this study also indicates that "The habits we develop, the emotional reactions we adopt to messages and the unspoken uses that exist around his e-mails combine to become a toxic source of stress, which can negatively impact our productivity and well-being. »
For less stress, learn to disconnect! Follow the advice of the Future Work Center:do not check your emails after 5 p.m. and deactivate your push notifications. “In other words, use email when you intend to, not just because it's part of your background. »
