Creating a shortcut to open an email pre-addressed to your email address will allow you to quickly take notes or create a reminder to yourself. This will work with Outlook 2003, Outlook 2007, and Outlook 2010.
There are a few simple settings you can change in Outlook to make sure you get the most of of your email experience. This works the same in Outlook 2007 and Outlook 2003.
Change folders to show "Total Number of Items"
Minimize interruptions by limiting email notifications
Turn on Spell Check
Empty Deleted items folder upon exiting (optional)