Every week, we ask notable people how they work.
This week, we’re looking within.
Here are the apps, tricks, and other junk I use to run Lifehacker every day.
Check out past years for more.
What apps/software/tools can’t you live without?
I finally switched to Chrome.
But I hate Firefox slightly more, so I guess I’m using Chrome for now.
I’ve alsofinally made the jump to Crashplanas my main backup solution.
I back up both to my NAS and to Crashplan’s servers.
What’s your workspace setup like?
In a word: excessive.
But I haven’t added that much to it this year.
I also got anAudioengine D1to replace my crappy-broke-within-a-month FiiO amp.
Everything else is pretty much the same aslast year.
It better be comfortable.
Also: Sell the crap you aren’t using.
(Not to mention you’ll reduce clutter!)
you might seefull image albums of my workspace here, andof my PC here.
They’re only slightly outdated.
What’s your best time-saving shortcut/life hack?
For me, the “want to do” is writing.
I’ve lately gotten much better at creating little rituals to signify context changes in my day.
It’s really nice, and something to look forward to at the end of the day.
What’s your favorite to-do list manager?
I run my entire life through Wunderlist and Google Calendar.
Most of the time, though, I don’t use Wunderlist for the regular day-to-day stuff.
Since becoming editor-in-chief, I find that my day is a lot less structured.
Sometimes, you just have to get things done, even if your method goes against conventional wisdom.
Besides your phone and computer, what gadget can’t you live without and why?
This thing is magical.
And I have strong feelings about my water staying cold.
So I take it with me everywhere I go.
I’ve detailed a lot of that gear inthis post.
What everyday thing are you better at than everyone else?
What’s your secret?
I’m weirdly good at making wacky-but-accurate analogies.
I don’t know why.
But it’s my gift.
What do you listen to while you work?
If I really really need to concentrate on something, I might switch toinstrumental metal.
But I’ve gotten pretty tunnel-visioned (eared?)
and don’t stray far from the path.
I’ve also become obsessed withelectronic remixes to current pop songs.
What are you currently reading?
I just started really getting into books again.
Next up is eitherThe Obstacle Is the WayorThe Millionaire Next Door.
I just started Brandon Sanderson’sMistbornand I’m really looking forward to it.
What has changed over the years since you started and what do you do differently?
There are a lot of things I’ve learned in the past few years.
And I’m trying to become more assertive and ambitious at work.
I think the biggest change I’ve made recently, though, has been with money.
I’m nowhere nearMr.
Of course, I still have a lot of stuff to work on, too.
Don’t let all the productivity porn get to you.
As long as you’re always improving, you have something to be proud of.
Have someone you want to see featured, or questions you think we should ask?
