Given that productivity is personal, your tools have to be a personal fit too. They’ve got to fit like that favorite pair of stilettos. What usually happens is that people choose the latest and greatest thing to hit the market and often because of its bells a whistles. They’re attracted to the fun perks, but not necessarily looking at what it offers them in terms of staying on point and on purpose.
Think about tools from the hardware store. There are tools for different things and each is uniquely suited for a particular task. Some might be for multiple tasks. Productivity tools are no different. Tools serve and support and will help you get through your day if you have something that’s a fit and that can do the heavy lifting.
What tool do you use on a daily basis to help you stay on task? Some people use their phone, at least to some extent and others use paper tools. You may not have a designated personal tool and you might use a bit of everything. Take inventory of what you are using now. Is it working for you? If not, in what ways does it not work? Making note of what isn’t working will show you where your gaps are. Make a quick list of those gaps. Then determine if what you’re using is a fit for you. Your personal tool should be a fit for your Productivity Persona. If your persona is more conducive to digital tools, then paper is going to be a challenge for you. Your Persona might indicate that a combination tool is what works best for you.
If you have to find something new, make sure you do your homework. Be sure that what you choose has the features you’re looking for, otherwise you’ll end up with something that can’t serve you. The tool you choose is the first piece of your personal productivity system and is a key piece, so choose wisely. Take a close look at what you have, what you need and look at what’s available to see what fits and will do the job. In addition to your personal tool, take look at digital pieces that serve as good add ons. I recently updated my list of favorite tools that I use and recommend and shared it in my Productive Alchemy Facebook group. If you’re looking for recommendations, you’ll find it there in the files section.