Restrict your todo list to a single device

There is something to be said about restricting your todo list to a specific device. For instance, I manage my tasks, thoughts, meetings & notes in a single text file.

This isn’t new (single text file productivity search reveals many others who use this technique). What I have done additionally is that I don’t access this file on my phone.

I find that this blocks the temptation to capture every single thought into the file (contrary to what all those productivity gurus out there would have you do). I don’t want to capture all the noise and garbage. Capturing notes should be done with intent. Every note needs to serve a purpose.

This also means that during your review block, you have less information to process and organize. Everything you have written down is well thought out and directly relevant to the things you are working on.

When I am not on my computer, I actively don’t think about stuff I want to write down. I try to be in the moment and be content with doing nothing.