Smartphones have revolutionised our everyday lives in ways that go beyond how we communicate. More than just electronic devices, they are an extension of ourselves. Isn’t it fascinating how we are increasingly reliant on mobile apps to sort out our daily tasks and priorities?
As a digital enthusiast, I’m constantly on a lookout for new apps to try out - particularly the ones that help to improve my productivity. I’ve had my fair share of productivity apps - both good and bad.
To me, an important factor when it comes to using an app is its user-friendliness. After all, it’s supposed to make my life easier. The more straightforward it is, the better. Here’s my list of productivity apps that hit the mark (at least in my books):
1. Deepstash
Reading is good - it gives our brain a good workout. But ask yourself: when was the last time you indulged in a long read? Most of us would probably say that we don’t have the time to curl up with a good book, or we’re just plain lazy (don’t worry, you’re not alone). In addition, today’s digital audience favours visual content.
How does Deepstash help? This handy app enables users (aptly called “stashers”) to curate bite-sized content by breaking down long reads into shareable daily digests. Not keen on the creator role? Just follow your favourite stashers to read their stuff! Perfect for on-the-go reading, I often do my quick reads during breakfast. Deepstash is a great app if you want to jump-start your reading habits.
2. CardBeat
At times, ideas strike out of nowhere. Instead of fishing out pen and paper from your bag, isn’t it more convenient to jot down your thoughts on virtual index cards? That’s what CardBeat offers. Sure, your phone has a pre-installed note-taking app, but it’s boring. What I like about CardBeat is that you can customise your index cards and save them on virtual cork boards. In short, CardBeat makes note-taking tasks fun!
3. Canva
Who doesn’t know Canva, the life-saving graphic design tool for non-designers everywhere? Canva boasts thousands of professionally-designed templates that you can use to create your masterpieces, be it images or videos. Available on both desktop and mobile, I prefer the latter as it lets me design and edit visuals in a snap. If you’re a social media maven who posts regularly, this app is a must-have in curating your feed.
4. Tack - Gratitude Journal
The art of self-care is not confined to just physical health. It encompasses mental health too. One of the ways to take care of your mental well-being is practising mindfulness. Granted, our hectic lifestyles may prevent us from slowing down and appreciating the small things in life. Hence, Tack is designed to help people keep track of grateful moments as they go about their day. Whenever I need some positive pick-me-ups, I’ll simply browse through my Tack journal and read my entries to boost my mood.
5. Notion
Gone are the days when you had to keep chasing your colleagues from other departments for project updates. Or being caught unaware of tasks you’re not briefed on. Notion is an all-in-one workspace that lets users consolidate all work matters on one platform, thus keeping everyone in the loop. What’s great about Notion is you can build your own workflow that suits your team’s dynamics. No more missing out on important updates!
Honourable mention: Slack
Team AdEasy uses Slack as our primary communication medium. While we still send out emails, Slack is great if you need quicker responses (gotta love emojis!). Also, the public channels encourage open communication at work. Furthermore, Slack has value-added features like reminders and note-taking. Another handy setting: built-in Do Not Disturb (DND) to manage off-hour requests.