An overflowing inbox is a list of unanswered questions. Each unread message is a tiny open loop, and open loops create stress.
A clean inbox does not mean you replied to everything. It means every message has a status: delete, archive, respond, delegate, or schedule.
Triage beats perfection
Set a short timer—15 minutes—and triage. The goal is movement, not completion. If a reply takes under two minutes, send it. If not, schedule it.
Use folders sparingly. For most people, search is good enough. The real win is making decisions quickly.
Protect attention
Turn off non-essential notifications. Your inbox should not be a slot machine. Over time, a cleaner inbox creates a cleaner mind—you stop carrying unfinished work in your pocket.