As you know, I’m always on the lookout for new tips and tricks to improve personal productivity. I saw an article on Hacker News, and it really hit home. The main concept is that, while technology has the power to greatly improve productivity, it also has the power to become a major distraction in our lives. This blogger’s personal solution is to set a few rules for himself.
Some of his ideas are:
- use offline tools for planning and brainstorming. Sometimes it helps to get away from your computer.
- use a dedicated computer for playing. It’s easier to tell yourself never to play games on your work computer, than to play for 15 minute and then stop. It’s really true! Seriously, how can you stop before you finish the next level… and the one after that?
- use airplane mode for your laptop and phone. All it takes is a new text message or email in your inbox, and your attention is gone. By shifting to offline mode, you force yourself to wait for your updates when you’re ready to get them.
Sometimes limiting the influence of technology over your life, actually can help you get more stuff done.