Difference between revisions of "Life Hacks"

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* NoteTaking {nid LLF}
{{RightTOC}}
* [http://www.google.com/intl/en_us/mobile/sms/index.html Google SMS] {nid MY9}


= Task Management {nid LP2} =
* [[Channel Management]]
* [[Project Management]]
* [[Relationship Management]]
* [[Mobile Lifestyle]]


I use [http://todotxt.com/ todo.txt], and I sync the data files between my home server and my laptop. It consists of a single to do list, and each item can be mapped to projects and contexts (as prescribed by GettingThingsDone). {nid LP3}
= Goal Tracking =


I don't use that many contexts. Things like "@computer" aren't useful for me, because I'm almost always near my computer. My main contexts are: {nid LP4}
Inspired by [http://www.happiness-project.com/happiness_project/2006/12/how_you_too_can.html Gretchen Rubin], who was inspired by [http://www.flamebright.com/PTPages/Benjamin.asp Benjamin Franklin], I've been using a Google Spreadsheet as a dashboard for tracking personal goals and resolutions. It's similar to stuff I've used for work projects, only applied to my life.


* @call {nid LP5}
The most success I've had was with a personal goal tracking dashboard for Groupaya. Each week, I give myself a point for:
* @email {nid LP6}
* @write {nid LP7}
* @errand {nid LP8}


I use aliases for each of these contexts, so that when I'm near my phone, I can quickly type {{{tocall}}} to see a list of people I need to call across all my projects. {nid LP9}
* Playing basketball (or simply shooting around)
* Taking a long walk (1+ hours), going for a run, or generally working out
* Taking a [http://eekim.com/blog/2011/08/wednesday-play-days/ play day]. I include holidays here.
* Turning off my work email before dinner on weeknights
* Not checking my work email on Saturday or Sunday during the day


When I'm not near my computer, I keep lists on good old paper, which I eventually transfer to my computer. I like index cards, but not for managing tasks, as the stack would quickly become unmanageable. {nid LPA}
I track weekly points, yearly averages, and a rolling four-week average.


= Time Management {nid LLG} =
= Work Big =


Spend the first hour of your workday [http://www.lifehacker.com/software/time-management/geek-to-live--control-your-workday-187074.php email-free]. Finish a high-priority task first thing in the morning, then check your email. {nid LLH}
I have a dual monitor setup: Samsung SyncMaster 204BW (20" widescreen) and a Dell 24" monitor. In 2011, I converted my desk into a [[standing desk]] using a couple of IKEA platforms. When I get tired, I switch to my laptop and sit down somewhere comfortable.


Schedule a post-work appointment to prevent post-work lingering. {nid LLI}
I have a magnetic [[whiteboard]], which I bought cheap and barely used, and which I love.


I have rudimentary calendaring software -- no meeting maker or anything of the like. When I propose a meeting (both business and personal), I'll enter it in my calendar delimited by parentheses so I don't accidentally overbook. {nid LP1}
= Time Management =


= New People {nid KSJ} =
Spend the first hour of your workday [http://www.lifehacker.com/software/time-management/geek-to-live--control-your-workday-187074.php email-free].  Finish a high-priority task first thing in the morning, then check your email.


When I meet someone new in a biz context, I add them to my CiviCRM database. If I'm curious enough, I'll find their blog and add them to my aggregator under "Recently Met." {nid KSK}
Schedule a post-work appointment to prevent post-work lingering.


= Blog Reading {nid KSL} =
Turn off email notifications.


Organized by: {nid KSM}
I have rudimentary calendaring software -- no meeting maker or anything of the like. When I propose a meeting (both business and personal), I'll enter it in my calendar with a question mark so I don't accidentally overbook.


* Frequently (check at least once a day) {nid KSN}
See also [[Project Management]].
* Daily {nid KSO}
* Weekly {nid KSP}
* Monthly {nid KSQ}


* Wikis {nid KSR}
== Time Tracking ==
* Software Development (Subversion commit feeds) {nid KSS}
* Recently Met {nid KST}
* Old Blogs (inactive blogs with bookmarked entries) {nid KSU}


See my [http://www.bloglines.com/public/eekim Blogline feeds]. {nid KSV}
I'm going to try to use [[Pomodoro Technique]] rather than traditional time tracking.


I got the idea for this organization from BillDeHora's [http://www.dehora.net/journal/2006/04/information_underload_part_i_feed_by_time_1.html post]. It's worked very well for me; my blog reading is much more efficient. It's important to prune regularly. {nid KSW}
Used Harvest when I was at Groupaya. [http://slimtimer.com/ SlimTimer] is another option.


= Email {nid KV5} =
[http://www.rescuetime.com/ RescueTime] for Mac/Windows is intriguing. May be worth it, even though there's no Linux support.


Thunderbird.  Extensions: {nid KV6}
= Paperless =


* [http://mailredirect.mozdev.org/index.html mailredirect] {nid KV7}
Going paperless is an ongoing battle for me, but I continue to make progress. [[Evernote]] is very key.
* [http://enigmail.mozdev.org/ Enigmail] {nid KV8}
* [http://cweiske.de/misc_extensions.htm#dispMUA dispMUA] {nid KV9}
* [http://extensions.hesslow.se/extension/4/Quicktext/ Quicktext] {nid LLE}
* [http://www.zindus.com/faq-thunderbird-google/ Google Contacts Sync] {nid MYC}


GettingThingsDone: {nid KVA}
I have a [[Canon P-215]] portable scanner. I'm not using it as a mobile device (although I like that I can), but I like the small footprint. I used to have a [[Fujitsu ScanSnap S510]], which was wonderful, but I started having trouble with the feeder, and it became of limited use to me. I thought my [[Brother MFC-9970CDW]] would be an adequate replacement, but I really miss the duplex scanning. I thought seriously about getting a [[ScanSnap S1300|Fujitsu ScanSnap S1300i]], but decided to go with the Canon P-215 largely on the recommendation of this [http://thewirecutter.com/reviews/the-best-portable-scanner-is-the-canon-p-215/ Wirecutter review].


* http://www.katywhitton.com/flipping/index.asp?view=display&ID=579 {nid KVB}
= Paper =
* http://entropicprincipal.blogspot.com/2005/09/using-thunderbird-to-get-things-done.html {nid KVC}
* http://www.metagrrrl.com/metagrrrl/2005/10/getting_things__1.html {nid KVD}
* http://www.summersault.com/community/weblog/2006/07/20/five-power-tips-for-thunderbird.html {nid KVE}


= Travel "PDA" {nid KVF} =
I also recognize that paper has a special quality, and that I want to use it where appropriate. I'm still trying to figure this out. I started using Moleskine notebooks (large, plain) years ago, and I love them. I have a custom leather cover that I also love.


= Firefox {nid KVG} =
I'm wanting to integrate paper back into my projects for two reasons. First, I've been going through old files, and I'm realizing that paper allowed me to stay organized in certain ways that digital just can't duplicate or improve on. Second, I've been having trouble with teams that get easily overwhelmed by digital systems.


Extensions: {nid KVH}
I'm wanting something nicer than a three-ring binder, so I'm investigating the [http://www.levenger.com/Circa-Notebooks-326/Circa-Notebooks-339/Circa-Starter-Kit-New-Core-8154.aspx Levenger Circa] (the [http://www.levenger.com/Circa-Notebooks-326/Circa-Notebooks-339/Bomber-Jacket-Circa-Leather-Foldover-Notebook-Core-5962.aspx Bomber Jacket notebook] looks so, so nice!) and the equivalent (and cheaper) [http://www.staples.com/sbd/cre/marketing/arc/index.html Staples Arc]. [http://www.fountainpennetwork.com/forum/index.php/topic/179891-new-staples-arc-vs-levenger-circa/ This thread] has a good comparison of the two systems.


* [https://addons.mozilla.org/addon.php?id=1368 Colorful Tabs] {nid KVI}
(The [http://www.rollabind.com/ Rollabind] and [http://www.myndology.com/ Myndology] also seem to be equivalent systems, but the Circa and the Arc seem to have the bigger followings.)
* [http://chrispederick.com/work/webdeveloper/ Web Developer] {nid KVJ}
* [http://del.icio.us/help/firefox/extension del.icio.us] {nid KVK}


= Synchronizing Data {nid N1D} =
There's also the [http://www.sorta.la/ Sorta], created by friends of Amy's. I like the closed binding, but there doesn't seem to be the equivalent of a paper punch for the system.


Still exploring good syncing solutions. {nid N1E}
= House Hacks =


* [http://lifehacker.com/398775/sync-and-back-up-your-data-with-conduit-for-linux Sync and Back Up Your Data with Conduit for Linux] {nid N1F}
* [[Smart Locks]]
* [http://gcaldaemon.sourceforge.net/ GCALDaemon] (can act as an LDAP server for Thunderbird using Google Contacts as a data source) {nid N1G}


= Filing {nid LLJ} =
= Clothes =


One file per hanging folder. {nid LLK}
* [http://us.icebreaker.com/ Icebreaker Merino]
* [http://www.smartwool.com/ Smartwool]
* [http://www.exofficio.com/ Ex Officio]


Two-thirds rule.  This applies to all containers, not just file cabinets.  For example, your refrigerator (for those inclined to fill those up). {nid LLL}
= Snacks =


Use a label maker. It really does make a difference. {nid LLM}
* [http://www.nicks-sticks.com/ Nick's Sticks] and [http://www.tankabars.com/ Tanka Wild Sticks]


= Cell Phone {nid LZS} =
= Sleeping =


I just purchased a Motorola KRZR K1m. Thinking about hacking it: {nid LZT}
I generally sleep pretty well, but I've incorporated a few hacks into my life. The main one is to use a blue light filter in my digital devices (e.g. [https://justgetflux.com/ flux]).


* [http://cdmaforums.com/forums/t5559-krzr-k1m-mods.html KRZR K1m mods] {nid LZU}
[[wikipedia:Max Richter|Max Richter]] composed an [https://kottke.org/18/03/max-richters-sleep-an-8-hour-album-designed-to-be-listened-to-while-you-sleep album], ''[[wikipedia:Sleep (album)|Sleep]]'', with the assistance of neuroscientist [[wikipedia:David Eagleman|David Eagleman]], designed to be played while you sleep. It's lovely, but I haven't tried sleeping to it yet.
* [http://www.howardforums.com/archive/topic/1080579-1.html Bell KRZR mods] {nid LZV}
* [http://mark.cdmaforums.com/KRZR-Alltel.htm KRZR Alltel] {nid LZW}
* [http://mark.cdmaforums.com/Monster2.htm Mark Ventures Verizon Mobile Help Pages] {nid LZX}
* [http://wiki.howardforums.com/index.php/Motorola_V3c_Tutorial:_Flashing_to_Alltel_User_Interface#Benefits Motorola V3c Tutorial] {nid LZY}
 
Synchronization: {nid ML0}
 
* [http://en.isync-hilfe.de/plugin.html iSync phone plugins] {nid ML1}
* [http://www.spanningsync.com/ Spanning Sync] -- synchronize Google Calendar with iCal. {nid ML2}
 
= Snail Mail {nid MPH} =
 
[http://www.catalogchoice.org/ Catalog Choice] lets you easily unsubscribe to unwanted catalogs. {nid MPI}
 
= Managing Paper {nid MXK} =
 
I own a Fujitsu ScanSnap, which works with [http://www.awe.com/mark/blog/200709161530.html Linux].  I'm also going to try [http://www.scancafe.com/ Scan Cafe] for preserving my film photographs. {nid MXL}
 
[http://unclutterer.com/2008/05/01/how-to-digitally-encode-vhs-home-movies/ "How to digitally encode home movies."] {nid MY8}
 
= Other {nid MXM} =
 
[http://www.codinghorror.com/blog/archives/001078.html battery charger] {nid MXN}

Latest revision as of 19:32, 13 September 2021

Goal Tracking

Inspired by Gretchen Rubin, who was inspired by Benjamin Franklin, I've been using a Google Spreadsheet as a dashboard for tracking personal goals and resolutions. It's similar to stuff I've used for work projects, only applied to my life.

The most success I've had was with a personal goal tracking dashboard for Groupaya. Each week, I give myself a point for:

  • Playing basketball (or simply shooting around)
  • Taking a long walk (1+ hours), going for a run, or generally working out
  • Taking a play day. I include holidays here.
  • Turning off my work email before dinner on weeknights
  • Not checking my work email on Saturday or Sunday during the day

I track weekly points, yearly averages, and a rolling four-week average.

Work Big

I have a dual monitor setup: Samsung SyncMaster 204BW (20" widescreen) and a Dell 24" monitor. In 2011, I converted my desk into a standing desk using a couple of IKEA platforms. When I get tired, I switch to my laptop and sit down somewhere comfortable.

I have a magnetic whiteboard, which I bought cheap and barely used, and which I love.

Time Management

Spend the first hour of your workday email-free. Finish a high-priority task first thing in the morning, then check your email.

Schedule a post-work appointment to prevent post-work lingering.

Turn off email notifications.

I have rudimentary calendaring software -- no meeting maker or anything of the like. When I propose a meeting (both business and personal), I'll enter it in my calendar with a question mark so I don't accidentally overbook.

See also Project Management.

Time Tracking

I'm going to try to use Pomodoro Technique rather than traditional time tracking.

Used Harvest when I was at Groupaya. SlimTimer is another option.

RescueTime for Mac/Windows is intriguing. May be worth it, even though there's no Linux support.

Paperless

Going paperless is an ongoing battle for me, but I continue to make progress. Evernote is very key.

I have a Canon P-215 portable scanner. I'm not using it as a mobile device (although I like that I can), but I like the small footprint. I used to have a Fujitsu ScanSnap S510, which was wonderful, but I started having trouble with the feeder, and it became of limited use to me. I thought my Brother MFC-9970CDW would be an adequate replacement, but I really miss the duplex scanning. I thought seriously about getting a Fujitsu ScanSnap S1300i, but decided to go with the Canon P-215 largely on the recommendation of this Wirecutter review.

Paper

I also recognize that paper has a special quality, and that I want to use it where appropriate. I'm still trying to figure this out. I started using Moleskine notebooks (large, plain) years ago, and I love them. I have a custom leather cover that I also love.

I'm wanting to integrate paper back into my projects for two reasons. First, I've been going through old files, and I'm realizing that paper allowed me to stay organized in certain ways that digital just can't duplicate or improve on. Second, I've been having trouble with teams that get easily overwhelmed by digital systems.

I'm wanting something nicer than a three-ring binder, so I'm investigating the Levenger Circa (the Bomber Jacket notebook looks so, so nice!) and the equivalent (and cheaper) Staples Arc. This thread has a good comparison of the two systems.

(The Rollabind and Myndology also seem to be equivalent systems, but the Circa and the Arc seem to have the bigger followings.)

There's also the Sorta, created by friends of Amy's. I like the closed binding, but there doesn't seem to be the equivalent of a paper punch for the system.

House Hacks

Clothes

Snacks

Sleeping

I generally sleep pretty well, but I've incorporated a few hacks into my life. The main one is to use a blue light filter in my digital devices (e.g. flux).

Max Richter composed an album, Sleep, with the assistance of neuroscientist David Eagleman, designed to be played while you sleep. It's lovely, but I haven't tried sleeping to it yet.

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