Three Tools of the Trade
We often define technology as digital. However, another definition of technology is "the application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes." While I enthusiastically embrace all forms of technology, today I present to you our scientific knowledge or repeated experience with non digital products that I use daily.
It's not always about the latest and greatest gadgets or applications. It is about finding the right tools to aid your productivity practice. Scientific knowledge is derived from repeated experimentation and practice. Repetition or replication leads to discovery and progress. My repetition or practice using these tools makes an incredible difference in my work.
Great tools should not be complicated or expensive. Simplicity, reliability and ease will help you to increase your productivity to its maximum potential. Because your most important tools are your time, energy and attention (TEA), make every purchase, every item you use be something that serves your TEA.
Below are three "low tech" suggestions for tools that I like and use. These are tiny things, but it is the tiny stuff and the tiny habits that can make a juicy day, week, month, life.
My Top 3:
- A quality bound journal. Write, reflect, plan. And my bound journal is a fantastic complement to my favorite digital tool - Evernote.
- A good headset. Yes, headsets are dorky, but very useful. Freeing your hands while talking on the phone is super productive - not to mention ergonomic. I have some great recommendations for wired and wireless headsets.
- A high quality pen or pencil. The right tools make an incredible difference in my productivity. I love fountain pens, roller ball pens, and mechanical pencils.
What are your favorite low tech tools? Look at the items that you use to communicate, to reflect, to plan. Are those tools working to serve your TEA?