• bloopernova@programming.dev
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    1 year ago

    For me, I have to write things down to remember to do them. So I’ve formed a habit around writing in org-mode both as reminders and for planning.

    When I plan some complex code, I write out the steps in an org-mode document and move sections around, rearrange steps, etc etc.

    Making the experience as smooth as possible can help, but mostly I think my workflow has been “someone asks me to do something. I immediately write it down so I don’t lose it.”

    • nieceandtows@lemmy.worldOP
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      1 year ago

      Yeah I’ve found that writing things down keeps me in the moment and prevents me from zoning out, but I can’t bring myself to write stuff down because it’s that starting trouble. Any tips on making it into a habit?

      • bloopernova@programming.dev
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        1 year ago

        Several things worked for me:

        • At the beginning of my work day, I have to login to Jira and view my tickets. I visualize myself doing that, and then creating my to-do list for the day from org-mode. It brings forward unfinished tasks from the previous day, so there’s a process or workflow: log in, open Jira, start new to-do file, compare file with Jira, update either Jira or the to-do file or both. I guess it works because it’s not just the to-do list, it’s several other things happening at the same time. So you’re not “updating a to-do list” you’re “starting work for the day”. Reframing the action can sometimes help.
        • Gaming it. If I get asked for a status update, I get “points” if I have the information I was asked for already in either Jira or my to-do file. That’s enough for a little dopamine reward because I was prepared. This follows a thread in my life where I really value being prepared ahead of time. Like anticipating cars ahead of me and braking before they do. How much of the future can I predict and adapt to with the minimum effort?
        • Visualizing. This is a bit woo-adjacent. I picture myself sitting down at my desk and remembering my to-do list. It works for me, but most people look at me like I’m a Sasquatch or something! Visualize doing something the next time you sit at a particular desk, or when you enter the office. I hope it works for others too!

        If I think of more I’ll add it in other comments. I really hope you can find some tricks that work for you!