Since I first read getting things done a few years ago, I’ve been trying various productivity systems. At first, I was eager to try as many methods as possible, but I soon realized that what I needed was something simple.
The following is the productivity setup that I actually use at home. It’s very simple and I’ve been using it for many months now.
Big Picture
I have a single sheet of paper with my main goals. Here I have my two main goals and what I’m currently focusing on. I keep this sheet of paper on my desk as I want to be reminded of it as many times as possible.
Note that I don’t have any deadline on my two goals. The reason is that I want to work on them every day as if there was no more time available. I do have other goals, but they are not as important as these ones, that’s why I have not listed them here.
Daily list
I used to keep track of everything via software. Hoever I now rely only on paper for my daily todo list. The reason is that there are less distractions on paper and it’s extremely easy to draw a sketch if necessary. I usually use a notepad, but I try to recycle as much used paper as possible.
Computer setup
I work with computers all day, but I still like simplicity. The following is a list of my preferred productivity applications.
Google chrome
I use google chrome because it’s really fast and it works well. I occasionally switch to firefox if I need some developer tools or other plugins, but other than that I’m happy with chrome.
1 Password
1 Password is a tool for keeping track of your passwords. This allows me to generate unique passwords for every website without having to remember them. 1 Password is only available for mac os x, but I’m sure there are other password managers for windows.
Writeroom
Writeroom is a distraction free writing tool. There’s a free alternative available for windows called darkroom.
Things
Things is a mac application that I use for keeping track of long projects. Although this is a mac only application, I’m sure there are valid alternatives for all platforms.
Dropbox
Dropbox is a tool for syncing documents online. It’s very useful if you have more than one computer and you want to sync documents.
Skype
I use Skype when I need to talk with someone over the internet.
Conclusion
Of course I do have other software installed in my computer for accomplishing specific tasks. However I prefer to have the minimum indispensable and I always think twice before installing new apps.
What about you? What are your favorite productivity apps?