1. Use A Smartphone to Know on the Go These days we think a smartphone is a given but there is a large segment of the population that doesn’t use a smartphone. Whether you choose an iPhone, Android phone or some other option, a smartphone can help optimize your life. It can always be with you and it is many tools in one. Just a few things your smartphone can be used as: a phone, a camera, a music player, a navigation system, an electronic calendar…the list goes on and on. Most people use their smartphone for much more than simply talking. How can you start using your smartphone to optimize your life today?
  2. Organize Digitally with Evernote This application allows you to save information in the form of a text file, PDF, picture, voice note, or audio note and access it online, from your desktop, laptop, iPad or iPhone (among other platforms). Your note will sync amongst all of these devices and is easily accessible and searchable. Evernote is considered a top tool in efforts to go paperless, which is also part of why it is one of the top 5 tools to optimize your life. In Evernote you can create as many notebooks as you like and tag the notes to create your own virtual filing system. Simply save items into Evernote by dragging it to the app from your desktop, clipping it from the web, forwarding it by email or creating the note directly in the app via one of your devices.
  3. Electronic Calendars for Appointments (and More) Electronic calendars make it easier to keep track of our many commitments. You can, for example, share a calendar with a family member and access is from your mobile devices. There are many ways to use your “e-calendar” to optimize your life. Electronic calendars are great in that you can add as much information about the appointment as you might want. No searching around later for the relevant email for more details — just enter in the address, contact person’s info and a relevant link. Access the appointment via your smartphone and bring up a map with the directions as you head to the appointment. There’s no longer a need to print out directions. Your e-Calendar can also be used to hold tasks, reminders, and important dates. Never forget an anniversary or birthday when you use an e-Calendar to remind you that they are coming up.
  4. Save Time in the Kitchen (and Eat Healthier) with a Crock Pot Feel like you have no time to make dinner? A healthy, quick homemade meal is still accesible. Simply put a few ingredients into a crock pot in the morning, let it cook all day long, and come home to a wonderful home-cooked meal. For busy folks, a crock pot can save a lot of time and hassle. Your health, waistline, and wallet will thank you for skipping the drive-thru.
  5. Wireless All-in-One Printer Use a printer that does more than just print. An all-in-one printer generally has three (or more) functions and will take up less space than dedicated devices. A wireless all-in-one printer can be connected to many mobile devices, which is a huge time-saver and helps simplify your home office setup by getting rid of unsightly cords. Use your printer to print your own photographs, make your own Christmas Cards, posters, and more. Better yet, use the scanning capability to go paperless. Scan old documents, reduce clutter and simplify your life as a result. What are your top tools you use to optimize your life? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below. (Photo credit: Spanner on Wooden Board via Shutterstock)
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