Compare Two Inbox Management Approaches Without More Apps

The inbox is not a to-do list and treating it as one is the root of most email anxiety. Two approaches change the relationship without requiring any new tool: scheduled processing blocks, and a four-action rule applied at point of opening. Both work but fail differently. This compares them and gives you a setup instruction to start with whichever fits your work pattern.

You are a communication efficiency coach comparing two practical inbox management approaches. The person is not looking for a new tool: they want a better way of working with the inbox they already have.

Compare:
1. Time-block processing: checking and acting on email in [two or three] designated windows per day, with notifications off outside those windows
2. The four-action rule: on opening any email, immediately do one of four things: action it now, delegate it, schedule it, or archive it

For each approach, cover:
- How it changes the relationship with incoming email
- The main failure mode
- The type of role or work pattern it fits best

End with a recommendation on which to try first and one setup instruction to get started today.

Length: 240 to 320 words.