Over the years, I have tried many business and personal productivity tools. I’m always on the lookout for tools that help me stay focused, work faster and be more organized. Many have come and gone over time, and I’ve recently gravitated toward four mainstays that I use daily. I use these tools for managing priorities and projects, storing data files and other important information, and taking meeting notes.
- Dropbox. After using this cloud storage system over the past several years, I’m hooked. All of my documents (Word, Excel, PDFs, photos) are backed up to the cloud and my local hard drive. Files stored in my Dropbox are synced across all of my computers and mobile devices, and archives are available in the cloud. File and folder sharing make it a great tool for teams and small work groups. (dropbox.com)
- Evernote. For me, Evernote is a virtual file cabinet that I cram full of assorted notes, email archives, web screen shots, photos, tax documents, etc. Like Dropbox, items stored in Evernote are synced across all of my computers and devices. Snap a pic with your phone and email it to Evernote (you will be given a unique email address) and it will be instantly accessible from all of your devices. I’m just scratching the surface here – Evernote has many uses and great keyword search capabilities. (evernote.com)
- Nozbe. I was introduced to Nozbe by Michael Hyatt. Nozbe is my personal priority and project management application. In the “projects” area, you can set up a main project and include each element of the project as a separate to-do item. This app is also accessible on multiple computers and my iPhone. (nozbe.com)
- Moleskine Journals. This is my “low tech” tool of choice for taking meeting notes. Moleskine journals are available in multiple colors, are well made and provide a nice writing surface. While I would sometimes like to use Evernote in meetings, it’s much easier for me to take notes by hand. In addition, I find it offensive to be typing into a computer during a meeting – it takes away from the personal connection and dialogue. (moleskin.com)
These are my current must-have productivity tools. They keep my work accessible, and they have dramatically increased my day to day effectiveness in both my business and personal life.
Question: What are your favorite tools and apps for productivity and personal efficiency?
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