How to Go Back to Productivity Basics (Before Embracing That Shiny New App)
One simple piece of paper really can replace overwhelm with peace
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Comparisons can help to illuminate the shadows — especially those cast by the enormous number of productivity tools twirling their shimmery UX skirts before our insatiable eyes these days.
In this article, I’ll compare productivity tools with a chef’s cleaver, explore the hollow spectre of overwhelm, and show you how I beat it by going back to productivity basics. I believe that simplifying the tools you use — at least for a time — can be the best way to recalibrate your way to a sense of peaceful, realistic control.
Too Much, Too Soon
“Too much, too soon” is my 4-word definition of overwhelm. I’m not qualified to talk about the psychology behind it, but I am supremely qualified to comment on my own experience of being in various stages of overwhelm. From ghosting someone I’m supposed to report to, to stress-induced throwing up from both ends, I’ve been there and come out the other side.
Before getting into specifics, allow me to repeat the allegory …