Simply put, computers are tools. Like other tools, if not handled properly, disaster can result.
Computers were supposed to make our lives easier and save us valuable time (or so we were told in the beginning of the “Computer Age”). In many ways computers have made our lives easier. However, in many other ways, they have added more complexity and clutter rather than simplification. A lot of time, money and energy tend be wasted on electronics (purchasing, maintaining, repairing, surfing, etc.).
We must all be vigilant and diligent managers of our time, talent and treasure. In an effort to be of service, here are some great tips to help reduce and control various types of “electronic clutter.”
- Avoid Getting Sucked into the Electronic “Black Hole”: Set aside 5-10 minutes once a day to check emails. If you need to surf the Web, set a time limit, then set a timer for that amount of time. When it rings, you’re done! Shut down the computer and go on to something else.
- Avoid Spam and other Unpalatable Items: Ask your friends and family to not forward you spam or junk mail. All those cute pictures and chain emails are great wasters of computer space and your valuable time. When spam or junk mail arrives, mark it as spam (if your email allows this option). This will help prevent future items from these spammers showing up in your inbox.
- Avoid ePaper Clutter: Filing is filing. Follow a system that makes sense to you, make eFolders and label them accordingly. When you’re through reading an item and want to save it, move it to your eFolder.
- Avoid Lost or Stolen Passwords: Don’t put them on sticky Post It Notes on your desk or computer. Don’t store them on a Word, Excel or other unsecured document on your computer. If you have a Palm Pilot or other PDA device, there are secure programs, such as Splash ID that you can download and store your personal information and passwords on. Just be sure to lock your Palm Pilot after each use. If you don’t store your passwords electronically, write them down in a notebook or store them on a piece of paper. Hide these in your bookshelf or other area where you know you can retrieve it, but not obvious (e.g. don’t put it in a folder in your file cabinet labeled “passwords”).
- Avoid Wasting Time Looking For Your Favorite Websites:
Every Web Browser that I’m aware of allows you to save the addresses of your favorite websites. This is sometimes referred to as “Favorites” or “Bookmarks.” You can organize your Favorites or Bookmarks the same way you organize your emails and other electronic documents. Simply create eFolders on your favorite Web Browser. When you arrive at your favorite information site (e.g. www.straighten-up-now.com), simply choose “add to Favorites” or “Bookmark It” and choose a folder to store the address in.
Utilizing these tips will help keep your computer “tool” in good working order.
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