Simplifying Things

Last night, I looked at my iPads and came to the realization that I don’t really need just about any notifications on either of them. Not even text messages. I have an Apple Watch strapped to my wrist, so any text message or weather alerts will find me with ease. So, the last thing I need is a banner popping up right in my face while I’m reading or writing.

My iPads are focus devices. My Air is where I do some of my writing, along with my MacBook. I don’t really write on my phone much, unless I really have to get something out. Same goes for my iPad Mini, as I do my reading there and not on my phone. All of this is simply considering what I use my devices for and optimizing them for that. So, if the intent is to focus, then eliminate the distractions.

I think about ways to stay off my phone and quiet my mind a lot. I hate the feeling I have when I doom scroll. It often feels like an opportunity missed to read, listen to an album, write, watch a TV show, or exercise. Each of those options would be better than an hour straight of Instagram Reels. It’s for this reason my Home Screen now looks like this.

I have four apps I use the most often, with “blank screen” widgets concealing info underneath. I don’t want to be overwhelmed by my devices. I just want to get in to do what I need and then get out. It’s for this reason my algorithmic social media apps are hidden in my App Library, to add just another bit of friction to things. I often use the built-in Spotlight search as an app launcher and hiding apps removes them from this search.

I’ve also been diving into my use of notebooks again. I keep a small pocket notebook (currently Field Notes) with me most of the time, with a pen small enough to tuck into my change pocket. Here I write to-do lists and any other notes relevant to my day. Each page usually amounts to one day, but sometimes it could be multiple pages. I have two larger Bullet Journal notebooks, one for work and one for life. I’ll transfer notes from the pocket notebook to the larger notebooks when I have a chance. The pocket notebook tends to act closer to a scratchpad, whereas the big notebooks have a much cleaner appearance. The act of writing things down helps me remember things better, much better than any digital note-taking system.

All of this is a bigger picture of finding peace. I want to be able to live in the moment more. I don’t want my attention pulled from things and people I enjoy. I’ve been investigating Apple Fitness more, looking at the build-your-own workout programs, even pricing out my own weights today. I want to be as healthy as possible, which is why I try to cook at home as much as possible. I’m also trying to meditate more, and I’m thankful to have a safe space or two in my life to talk out my problems.

The older I get, the more important peace is to me. I don’t want people who bring drama in. I work retail, and I deal with enough of that as it is. I just look to be my best self and to build myself to be better tomorrow. So, I’m always looking for any tips and tricks to achieve this, and I’m open to these kinds of discussions. So, if you have anything for me, let me know.