Inbox Hypnotism™

Codifying human error as a chronic condition we are all affected by, so it can be managed

Inbox Hypnotism™ is a zero blame approach by default, but not zero responsibility

Accepting humans as humans with…

Zero Blame

…for traits we can’t be expected to change

Inbox hypnotism is a cognitive state that we all experience when we're checking email, where we become hyper-focused on our inbox and our brains switch into "autopilot" mode. It's important to recognize that inbox hypnotism is not the fault of any individual, but rather a natural tendency that we all share. By providing targeted training on email security and implementing measures to reduce Inbox Hypnotism, we can help people to make better decisions when it comes to managing their inbox, and build better technology that meets humans where they are, and always will be.

Four areas that form important parts of Inbox Hypnotism:

Perception

How our perception affects our ability to detect threats and make effective decisions.

  • Human factors

  • Cognitive load

  • Decision fatigue

  • Stress and burnout

  • Multitasking

Behavioural

How our behavior and cognition affect our decision-making and ability to stay focused.

  • Interface design

  • Email overload

  • Automation and decision-making

  • Personalization and social engineering

Technology

How technology is designed and used, and how it can be exploited by attackers to manipulate users.

  • Human factors

  • Cognitive load

  • Decision fatigue

  • Stress and burnout

  • Multitasking

Manage

Techniques and strategies for managing email overload, reducing stress, and improving focus.

  • Mindfulness and attention training

  • Prioritization and time management

  • User education and awareness

  • Organizational culture and support

Inbox Exacerbation

Ways inboxes feed our Inbox Hypnotism

  1. The sense of urgency to respond to email quickly

  2. The fear of missing out on important information

  3. The desire for a clean, empty inbox

  4. The need to maintain good communication with colleagues, clients, or customers

  5. The pressure to stay on top of work and be productive

  6. The temptation to check email outside of work hours

  7. The belief that email is the most efficient way to communicate

  8. The habit of checking email repeatedly throughout the day

  9. The feeling of satisfaction when clearing out your inbox

  10. The distraction of notifications or sound alerts for new emails

  11. The tendency to get sidetracked by non-work-related emails

  12. The expectation of being available and responsive at all times

  13. The difficulty of separating important from unimportant messages

  14. The social pressure to be constantly connected and available

  15. The assumption that all email messages require a response

  16. The frustration of dealing with spam or unwanted emails

  17. The pressure to keep up with an overwhelming number of emails

  18. The feeling of guilt or anxiety when emails go unanswered

  19. The potential consequences of missing important information or opportunities.

Read about my Ask&Do model

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