11 Everyday Essentials that keep me going
essential apps, setting, utilities and tools for enhancing productivity and focus in daily life, from mini planners to Apple devices and AirTags.
1. Mini Planners
I keep these small planners scattered on my desk, and it works great for me. They help me take action faster. Real paper notes can't be ignored like digital reminders.
I use one page per day. I write down 6-8 tasks, pick the top 3 , and focus on those. By the end of the day, I get things done. These mini planners really work, and I mean it.
2. Nootropics
My alternative to coffee. These cognitive enhancers keep my ADHD brain calm and laser-focused during long sessions.
Alpha Brain for deep work and critical thinking,
Genius Mushroom when I feel creative.
3. A lot of notebooks — from pocket to large board
I write alot. Because My Pad > iPad
Different sizes for different purposes Pocket notebooks for quick ideas Medium ones for meeting notes, also great for bullet journaling Large boards for everything else — brain dump to scribble to sketch to what not
Filled notes are my recent favorites where I am printing photos and writing for my kids.
something about analogue > digital will always be special
4. Nokia 1174: The Real Smart Phone
Only quick calls. Battery never dies. Emergency device. Device to be present during dinners. and to top it all — No chance of doomscrolling.
5. iPhone 12 Mini in Dumb Mode
As much I am a big time Apple Fanboy, but I don't buy a new iPhone every year. I use my phone as a controlled device that ties my ecosystem.
Here are few things I do:
I use the Dumb Phone App
Keeps my homescreen clean and minimal. Distraction Free.
Turn off all notifications first, then turn on selective ones
Screen’s often on grayscale
No social media apps (except Instagram) on my phone
Track my mood, log my food, macros, water, and weight. It all syncs with my watch and health app
My phone is my wallet. i dont carry cash. MFS, online banking, finance tracker. All in one space
The small size is perfect
Great for quick replies to mail and checking on notion workspace and stay in touch team on the go.
Bought it in 2021 and it still works great with 89% battery life (impressive indeed)
6. Apple Home Compatible Lights + HomePod Mini (as the Hub)
Apple's automation is excellent ngl! Quick voice commands and gestures save only seconds, but they make daily living feel seamless.
The more you talk to Siri, the better she understands your patterns.
We get along well—she wakes me up, knows my schedule, nudges only when needed, and keeps my home accessories and security cams in order, shared with family. synced by mood: warm when cozy, vibey during downtime.
7. A Basic Water Bottle
Always around me, throughout the day.
Nothing fancy or Stanley about it. Simple but transformative.
I refill it 4 to 6 times a day = 3.5L = daily goal reached ✔️
8. Apple Watch SE
An old gen Apple Watch SE and the screen is cracked, but I only open it to charge it. It tracks my sleep, steps, heart rate, mood, and other health data my doctor needs. When I visit my doc, I just export the health report and mail her before the visit.
Apple Health Data Export: This feature is super useful when i visit my doctor. better than yapping.
9. AirTags … alot of AirTags
AirTags have eliminated the morning panic of "where did I put my keys?" Each important item has one. I've saved hours of searching and never missed a flight due to misplaced documents.
There an airtag inside
My passport and documents folder
Backpack
Keychain
SSD sleeves
Most important around the neck of my dear roommate, Sir 🐈
10. Macropad & Siri Shortcuts
Instead of buying the Elgato Stream Deck for $100, I got the Stream Deck Mobile App
I repurposed an old Samsung phone and paid $24.99 for a year's subscription.
A year should be enough to master the functions and shortcuts before i purchase the hardware.
I recently started using it, and my multitasking workflow is already improving.
These buttons aren't just shortcuts—they're real time savers.
11. Waste Bin with Plastic Bag Right Under the Desk
Quick decluttering without leaving my workspace.
During intensive work sessions, I can immediately dispose of coffee cups, snack wrappers, or paper scraps without breaking flow.
not only desk, keep air quality and humidity clean too.
Each of these tools serves a specific purpose in reducing friction, maintaining focus, and enhancing productivity in my daily life as a professional creative.
My intention is to live meaningfully, and every item—big or small—must serve a clear purpose for better daily living.
have a great day. until next blog.
take care. stay hydrated.