Every week, we ask notable people how they work. This week, we’re turning that gaze into our own navels. Otherwise, things are pretty much the same aslast yearand theyear before. Also, aLeatherman Wave, because everyone needs a good multi-tool. What’s your workspace setup like? I keep things minimal and my desk is about as simple as I can make it. In this case, I mean that literally. Behind the iMac is aTwelveSouth Backpackwith my MacBook....

Every week, we share the shortcuts, workspaces, and productivity tips of our favorite experts. I upgraded mostly for the slow-mo video and battery that lasted longer than two hours. At least I don’t own any Google hardware. I’m currently digging theSunrise calendar appfor iOS. For hands-on tools, I love myMilwaukee Sawzalland look for any excuse to use it. What’s your workspace setup like? I spend 80-90% of my work day at a desk....

)Current mobile gear:iPhone 6. It’s the communications operating system Plex runs on. We have a remote and global team. Google Docsis one of my favorite tools ever because of the collaboration features. PowerPoints are never fun so this makes it easier. We also use Hangouts all the time. GitHubis invaluable to me, as well. Plex is a unique product in that it supports so many platforms. Tracking product development progress across all of these platforms can be pretty daunting....

Working as a creative key in often means having a unique voice that makes you stand out. If you’re just starting out, you’ll probably emulate those around you. You may still be following the strategies or style of someone else, but you’re still in there. It takes a bit of time and effort to move away from it. The memory of when I first found my voice was not one thing....

Instructables userEngineer of Nonehas a simple fix. you’re free to also use silica kitty litter if you have some of that around. How to Prevent Super Glue from Drying| Instructables

It stops other programs from stealing focus, lets you customize Kodi’s shutdown menu, and more. KodiLauncher is not a particularly exciting app, nor is it one that everyone will need. KodiLauncher fixes those focus issues, and a host of others with little system tweaks. Check it out at the link below. The program is completely safe, and you’ll just need to set an exception for it.) Windows - XBMCLauncher - All in One Tool for Change Shell, Set Focus and More| Kodi Forums

Needless to say, Joneswho passed away in 2002knew comedy pretty darn well. Ever tried to listen to someone repeat a stand-up comedian’s joke? It’s amazing how unfunny it can be. Instead think of ways to be funny without relying on a “funny door.” Chuck Jones on What Makes a Comedian Funny| Big Think Photo byKonrad Summers.

Encrypting your sensitive data is important, but not all encryption tools are the same. Now it’s time to crown the community favorite. It’s also free and cross-platform, and easy to use. Bringing up the rear with just over 7% of the overall vote wasAxCrypt. The Hive Five is based on reader nominations. We understand it’s a bit of a popularity contest. Have a suggestion for the Hive Five? Send us an email at[email protected]!...

You probably know that whole spices have better flavor and stay fresher longer than their ground counterparts.

Reading comics, particularly on tablets, is adelightful use of bright, vivid touchscreens. On top of that, it adds a bunch of organization features that several other apps don’t have. you could also take snapshots of panels or pages you enjoy to save for later. While it may work with some fiddling, it’s not nearly as seamless as one would expect. It also doesn’t sync your comics themselves, but if you’re using Dropbox, it hardly matters....

Turns out, there’s an easier way: just ask. A low rating can make it harder for you to find a driver willing to pick you up. If you’re wondering how to get a good ratingor keep yours upUber has some recommendationson their blog.

Put an SSD in your pocket and you’ll sail through Boot Camp| Cult of Mac

Of course, it doesn’thaveto be. There are plenty of inexpensive options if you’re dating on a budget. We want to know yours. We’vesuggested coffee dates and hike datesin the past. Either option can be fun for long-term relationships, too. Best of all, they’re cheap. So what are your suggestions?