Are you struggling to stay productive and focused?
Do you want to improve your productivity without breaking the bank? Look no further!
In this post, we will share 11 purchases under $20 that have actually boosted productivity, inspired by a video from YouTuber Ali Abdaal.
The Trusty Bullet Journal
The bullet journal is not a particularly fancy thing.
You can get any random journal for under $20 and convert it into a bullet journal by following the bullet journal method.
The bullet journal is a mindfulness system disguised as a productivity system.
It encourages you to set daily priorities, be more intentional with your time, and even has a gratitude log to help you feel more grateful for the things in your life.
Magic Whiteboards
Magic whiteboards are an incredible tool for brainstorming and organizing.
These long sheets of cling film-like material stick to any surface with static electricity. You can write whatever you want on them, cross off tasks, and brainstorm new ideas.
They are particularly useful for tracking various tasks and projects, such as YouTube shorts, videos, or even ideas for your book.
A3 Writing Pad
An A3 writing pad is another physical product that can boost your productivity.
You can get any A3 pad from Amazon or any other stationery shop for around $5.
It’s nice to have a pad in front of you that you can write on, and it’s particularly useful for brainstorming videos and ideas for your book.
Sharpies
Sharpies are another cheap product that can help you be more productive.
The great thing about Sharpies is that they are thick, so you can’t be too granular with your thinking.
They force you to think in broad brushstrokes, which is particularly helpful when planning videos or writing essays.
Sticky Notes
Sticky notes are another fantastic tool to help you stay productive.
You can use sticky notes to remind yourself of tasks, ideas, or deadlines.
They are inexpensive, and you can write anything on them.
Remember to peel them sideways and then stick them down to prevent them from falling off.
USB Hub
A USB hub is a device that can expand a single USB port into multiple ports.
It’s particularly useful if you have multiple devices that need to be connected to your computer.
You can get a USB hub for around $10.
Phone Stand
A phone stand is a handy tool that can help you be more productive.
It keeps your phone in an upright position, allowing you to see notifications and take calls without picking up your phone.
It’s also helpful for video calls, so you don’t have to hold your phone or prop it up against something.
Blue Light Blocking Glasses
Blue light blocking glasses are a game-changer if you spend a lot of time in front of screens.
They block the blue light emitted by screens, which can disrupt your sleep and cause eye strain.
You can get a pair of blue light blocking glasses for around $15.
Headphones
Headphones are another essential tool for productivity.
They block out distractions, allowing you to focus on your work.
You can get a decent pair of headphones for under $20.
Timer
A timer is a simple yet effective tool for boosting productivity.
You can use a timer to break your workday into manageable chunks, such as the Pomodoro technique.
You can get a timer for under $5.
Desk Lamp
A desk lamp is another tool that can help you be more productive. It provides task lighting, which can reduce eye strain and make it easier to see what you’re working on. You can get a desk lamp for under $20.
Conclusion
In this blog post, we’ve learned about 11 cheap purchases under $20 that can boost your productivity.
From bullet journaling to sticky notes, whiteboards to Sharpies, these simple and affordable tools can help you be more intentional and productive with your time.
It’s important to remember that productivity is not about doing more, but about doing the right things.
By using these tools, you can prioritize your tasks, stay organized, and focus on what matters most.
FAQs
Can I use any journal for bullet journaling?
Yes, you can use any journal for bullet journaling.
The key is to follow the bullet journal method, which involves creating an index, future log, monthly log, and daily log.
How do I use a magic whiteboard?
A magic whiteboard is a cling film-like material that can be stuck to any surface using static electricity.
You can write on it with a whiteboard marker and erase it when you’re done.
It’s great for brainstorming, keeping track of tasks, and writing down ideas.
What is the benefit of using a writing pad and Sharpies?
Using a writing pad and Sharpies can help you think in broad brushstrokes and focus on the big picture.
Sharpies are thicker than regular pens, which encourages you to think more creatively and less granularly.
Why are sticky notes useful?
Sticky notes are useful because you can write reminders and to-do lists on them and stick them anywhere. They’re great for keeping track of tasks and ideas, and they can be easily moved around or thrown away when you’re done with them.
How can I be more productive?
To be more productive, focus on doing the right things rather than doing more things.
Use tools like bullet journaling, whiteboards, writing pads, Sharpies, and sticky notes to stay organized and prioritize your tasks.
Remember to take breaks and avoid multitasking, as these can actually decrease productivity.
