Around the iPhone Life Office

What Is Your Favorite Productivity Hack?

Donna, Editor in Chief

I've been loving the one-minute rule from Gretchen Rubin's Happier podcast, which challenges me to quickly take action on short tasks like responding to a text or email. You end up with a smaller to-do list and freed up mental energy.

Sarah, Senior Web Editor

I only open my email twice a day and write and reply to all my messages at once. The rest of the time I quit the app completely so I don't get distracted with notifications while I'm focusing on other projects.

Noah, COO

I would encourage everyone to learn how to use the search functions on your Mac and online. By learning some basic tricks, like stacking multiple search parameters, you'll be able to easily find the exact file you want.

Raph, CTO

As I'm winding down in the work day, I like to write a short summary of what I accomplished and what my biggest priority is for the next day. It helps me remember that I'm making progress and clarifies what's next so I can jump right in when I return to work.

Rheanne, Associate Editor

I just started using the app Tide (free) to help me stay focused at work. The app, which is based on the Pomodoro Technique, breaks your work into intervals and helps you stay in the zone with soothing background noise.

David, CEO

I turned off all notifications for my social feeds on my phone as part of an iPhone addiction challenge I took part in for an episode of the iPhone Life Podcast. Now, I'm not interrupted by Facebook or Instagram at work.