As programmers, our first instinct is often to use the nearest piece of technology.
While digital tools allow us to do incredibly things, they can also be incredibly distracting.
However, going analog can be a great boost of productivity.
1. Use analog alarm clock ⏰
Imagine this:
You turn off the alarm, and reflexively open Twitter on your phone.
You spend the next 30 minutes scrolling. When you finally get up, you feel unfocused.
Familiar?
Get an old school alarm clock. No more morning scrolling.
2. Use an hourglass ⏳
Timers help us focus. However, with digital timers, it's easy to forget them. They disappear from sight way too easily.
If you put a physical hourglass on your desk, it won't go anywhere. Seeing the literal sand shift will remind you that time is ticking.
3. Use pen & paper 📝
This tip is simple and widely applicable.
Want to figure out a problem? Write it down.
Want to start working on an app design? Sketch it out.
Want to design a new architecture for your codebase? Leave your laptop and phone in another room, grab a physical notebook.
When you need to think, modern technology often doesn't help.
Originally published as a short thread on Twitter.
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