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Cool tools really work.
A cool tool can be any book, gadget, software, video, map, hardware, material, or website that is tried and true. All reviews on this site are written by readers who have actually used the tool and others like it. Items can be either old or new as long as they are wonderful. We post things we like and ignore the rest. Suggestions for tools much better than what is recommended here are always wanted.
Lochby Mini Field Journal - keeps four 3.5x5.5 inch field notes journals organized and in good shape. I have one journal for general notes, and the three others each specific to my important subjects/projects. It includes slots for business cards and notes and a handy pen holder. It has a durable clasp and really takes a beating. My thoughts flow with much more creativity than using a notes app on my phone!
The Big Class Planner - I’m a high school administrator. Like many, my schedule is dictated by Outlook invitations, meetings, and reminders but this huge school-year (July to June) planner helps me see the big picture both monthly and annually, as I plan and problem solve the school year. When it folds open, it is almost as large as a desktop calendar. It’s wonderful and simply fun to use!
GoRuck Bullet Backpack - at 16L it’s not a big bag but it’s my everyday carry. It’s just big enough for what I need, but not so big that I end up carrying junk I don’t need. It also has an incredibly secure and padded laptop compartment. The entire front zips open from top to bottom, not just the top, so it’s really easy and fun to organize my gear in a most efficient manner (think Tetris!). It’s not cheap but it has a legit LIFETIME guarantee.
DIGITAL
Remember the Milk task planner - I am well aware there are much more sophisticated task planners available, but IMO this one is perfect. It’s like they put in exactly what you need, and then they simply stopped adding unneeded bells and whistles.
Pocket Casts - I read somewhere that the perfect podcast player does not exist. But this one is the closest I’ve found. Super easy and intuitive to use.
INVISIBLE
“The No S Diet” invented by Reinhard Engels. Here it is:
No Sweets, no Seconds, and no Snacks; except Sometimes on days that start with “S” (the weekend) or other Special days (like birthdays and holidays).
When I follow it, it works great. When I don’t… well, I gain weight and feel like crap. Super simple. Super effective. Super easy to follow.
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