When it comes to workplace productivity, people often rely on apps and tools to stay on task and organized. But what if you used those same tools to remain productive in your personal life? Even if you have a great work-life balance, you could benefit from being a little more organized. Learn which productivity tools you should be using every day, and find out the best way to use them.
Google Drive
Many employers rely on Google Drive to keep their files organized. So, why not use the same tool to keep track of your personal media? If you’re tired of having hundreds of disorganized photos and documents, you should start using Google Drive.
One of the apps in Google Drive is Google Photos. Using AI, the app can recognize the same faces and automatically organize everything for you. If you want to share your photos with friends and family members, you can easily do so with a shared album. During your next family reunion, everyone can upload photos to the same place.
You can also sort documents and photos by size, subject, or year. When you don’t have hours of time to organize your files, Google Drive is a lifesaver. And, if you start labeling your files and folders accordingly, you can ensure you don’t lose any more weekends to file sorting. With 15 GB of free storage, Google Drive is one of the best free products out there.
Note-Taking App
When life gets hectic, note-taking apps can save the day. There are hundreds of apps to choose from, so pick the one that works with your lifestyle the best. Once you download the app, you can use it as a personal assistant.
What should you use the app for? For one, you can use it to keep track of movies and TV shows you want to watch. You can also make a list of books you should read, or keep a shopping list open. No matter where you are, as long as you have your phone you can have access to your lists.
A note-taking app can be extremely useful for social events. If you’re attending a boss’ party or a networking event, you can write down conversation topics in one thread. Individuals with social anxiety or trouble sparking conversation often love having an endless list of topics to save the day. Ultimately, a note-taking app keeps you from fumbling for words or struggling to remember what groceries you need.
Chore Tracking with Asana
At work, your boss might assign you a variety of tasks in Asana. They have the option to set the deadline, make notes, and even set a chain of other action tasks. But you don’t need to limit your Asana use to the workspace. If you already have an account, why not use the app to its fullest?
You can plan out your chores and other important duties with Asana. Oftentimes, it’s difficult to know what to do or where to start. If you have a list of tasks already waiting for you in Asana, you don’t need to waste time trying to decide where to start. You can pick the first task and get the satisfaction of crossing it off your list.
If you want to get your kids involved in chores, you can also use the app to keep them in the loop. The calendar makes it easy for everyone to see deadlines and understand what you expect of them.
Plan Vacations with Airtable
As much as you may enjoy vacations, you have to admit that vacations are stressful. One of the easiest ways to remain on-task and on time during a vacation is to use Airtable. The software has a trip-planner template that covers everything from transportation to food.
The app also allows you to keep track of your budget. And you’re not the only one with access to all the data. If you want other people to be mindful of the plans and budget, you can add them to your trip.
Budgeting with Google Sheets
Every month, the bills might seem to add up. Do you know what you’re really spending your money on? If you’re not already using a finance-tracking app, it’s time to start using Google Sheets. You can use a preset template to keep track of your spending habits.
After a month or two of analyzing your spending, you can set a budget and stick to it. You can include everything in one sheet - a mortgage payment, utilities, groceries, and anything else you spend money on. Typically, using a tracker like this allows you to see where you’re overspending. The app also has formulas that make it easy to calculate your monthly and yearly averages.
This app is completely free and is either available on a browser or on an app. You can take it with you and use it whenever it’s most convenient. Thanks to budgeting with Google Sheets, you can save more money.
Party Preparations with a CRM
If you have special events to plan, you can use a CRM to organize everything. This is particularly useful for large events, like family reunions and parties. Since you spend so much time and money planning, you might as well take extra measures to organize the event well.
A CRM is an app or software that makes it possible to track relationships with clients. However, you can use it to stay on top of RSVPs and follow-ups. If you don’t want to be left with an uncertain guest list, you should use a CRM to keep up with everyone. Many CRMs also come with email lists that you can use to send out invites or follow up with guests.
Being More Productive
Being more productive in the workplace pays off, but the same is true of being more productive at home. You could save money, enjoy more vacations, and improve your personal relationships. Best of all, most of these productivity apps are free or low-cost.