Tools
Being a minimalist and a tech-loving person can often be at odds with each other, but I do my best to keep my software and hardware streamlined. Below is a list of my curated tools. (updated July 16, 2024)
Journaling
Journal
I started using the Bullet Journal method to help with mental health and personal growth. This method of journaling has been revolutionary for me.
I have found the Archer and Olive notebooks to be my favorite. They have thick paper and show no bleed-through, even with multiple layers of markers. And they are beautiful!
Pens & Markers
I quickly became a pen nerd. Here are a few of my favorites:
Productivity Software
PKM (personal knowledge management) and Notes
Upnote—I used Bear (which I still love) for several years but recently found the UpNote app. After using it for a little bit, I ended up switching. I like that I can use notebooks and tags to organize my notes. The web clipper is good on all platforms. You can export notes as Markdown to take your notes wherever you go. It has a clean interface (not as clean as Bear) and syncs fast. I wish I could store my data on iCloud, but that is a small issue that is not a deal breaker.
Tasks and Project Timelines
Apple Reminders – I’ve tried them all but keep returning to Reminders’ simplicity. I have Homepods around my house, so I can ask Siri to add things to various lists or remind me of things without stopping what I’m doing.
Creative Software
Photo Editing
Lightroom—I’ve tried all the other software but always return to Lightroom. It’s perfect on my Mac or iPad.
Video Editing
Final Cut Pro – A powerful video editor from Apple.
Hardware
iPhone
16 Pro
M2 iPad Pro
I do most of my writing on my iPad with the Magic Keyboard and love editing photos with the Apple Pencil. It’s a fantastic setup; this is all I bring when traveling.
14″ M1 MacBook Pro
I’ve been using Macs since the 1990s—they are robust and work. The new M1 MacBook Pro is fantastic. I love that the SD card reader is back. The screen is beautiful, the keyboard feels excellent while typing, and the laptop is fast!