- A good old fashioned digital timer for $6. I set up the time and do something, like work, read, hobbies, etc. I don't get distracted by other things on phone. I don't have to keep the screen on and use apps like Forest or other pomodoro timers, and it saves battery. I waste way less time now getting distracted. So, it's like a pomodoro timer but my intervals are higher- 1 hr to 2 hr.
- A basic smartwatch for $20 that tracks my sleep and physical activity. I get 8000 steps of walking everyday now, and are more aware of stress. I can now use stress reduction and avoidance techniques before I get stressed, with heart rate monitoring. It really changed my life.
- Several entry level fountain pens in $20/$30 like Lamy Safari, Pilor Metropolitan, etc. You wouldn't believe how great the writing experience becomes when start using FPs.
- A Ukulele at $30, and it is so much easier than guitar for the easier things. Now I can sing and play an instrument. I tried guitar, piano, flute, but they didn't stick.
Under $1000
- At just over $100, a Kindle with background light for reading. I love paper books but Kindles are much more convenient. I read much more and in more situations.
- A good old fashioned digital timer for $6. I set up the time and do something, like work, read, hobbies, etc. I don't get distracted by other things on phone. I don't have to keep the screen on and use apps like Forest or other pomodoro timers, and it saves battery. I waste way less time now getting distracted. So, it's like a pomodoro timer but my intervals are higher- 1 hr to 2 hr.
- A basic smartwatch for $20 that tracks my sleep and physical activity. I get 8000 steps of walking everyday now, and are more aware of stress. I can now use stress reduction and avoidance techniques before I get stressed, with heart rate monitoring. It really changed my life.
- Several entry level fountain pens in $20/$30 like Lamy Safari, Pilor Metropolitan, etc. You wouldn't believe how great the writing experience becomes when start using FPs.
- A Ukulele at $30, and it is so much easier than guitar for the easier things. Now I can sing and play an instrument. I tried guitar, piano, flute, but they didn't stick.
Under $1000
- At just over $100, a Kindle with background light for reading. I love paper books but Kindles are much more convenient. I read much more and in more situations.