Written by Dallea Caldwell
Scarlett Johansson could probably prescreen and ghostwrite your email correspondence, read your text messages aloud, and organize your life’s work into a marketable anthology. But, you can’t afford “Her”.
Nor can your social life afford the still-taboo choice to make Siri your next wedding date. Still, the technology you hold in the palm of your hand can actually make a big impact on your ability to handle your many competing responsibilities.
Here are 5 of the Best Apps to Boost Productivity
Any.Do: Here’s one app designed to help you take on your to-do list one day at a time. Begin each day by deciding which tasks to complete, defer, or delegate with Any.Do.Moment while seeing what’s already on your itinerary for the day with Any.Do.Cal.
Sociidot: Do you find yourself clearing a to-do list when you really want to build and legacy and leave your mark? Sociidot sets itself apart by recognizing the difference. This app lets you set long-term goals and break them into smaller achievable chunks- just like they taught you in middle school. Need a little direction? Sociidot offers expert “Roadmaps” for $1.99-$5.99.
RescueTime: Do you look up exhausted at the end of the day and realize you’ve accomplished nothing? Rescuetime runs in the background and monitors your computer use so you can discover exactly which website is responsible for the epic time-suck. Then, you can block or limit allowable time spent on those wasteful websites to help keep you on track.
Carrot: Ever wish you could hire your high-school gym teacher to push and insult you into the most productive shape of your life? Then Carrot is your new best friend/worst enemy. The app is designed to entertame you into submission through annoying and persistent alerts or even public shaming “Would you to confess your laziness to all your social media friends?”. But, it’s not all stick. Completing tasks earns you points that can be applied to rewards like jokes and stories.
Focus@Will: Bandwidth can expand your attention span. That’s why the people behind Focus@Will teamed up with neuroscientists at UCLA to build the most effective motivational, yet non-distracting musical playlist. Its website claims to boost attention span by 400%.
Boost Your Productivity!
So, sure… the actual drudgery of accomplishing goals is nowhere near as satisfying as binding on Netflix and Skittles. But, doing something today that your future self will thank you for is far more fulfilling.
And… if finding a local service provider (like an accountant, car-repairman, or HVAC pro) is on your to-do list, then check it off your list with Seva Call (www.talklocal.com). The virtual concierge takes you from search for to conversing with a top-rated local pro who matches your needs and schedule in about 90 seconds.
