I’ve spent sufficient time over the last year optimizing my workflow setup—both software-based and analog—to notice distinct patterns emerging in the ways that I optimize my workflow.
Most significantly, I’ve noticed a cycle of adding and removing items and tools from my setup. I call this the Minimalism Cycle.
minimalism
As I mentioned in my recent post on wireless devices, my tastes tend toward minimalism. However, “minimalism” to me is not always the primarily-aesthetic concept that’s become mainstream.
To me, minimalism is founded in ideas and processes—for example, low friction to accomplish tasks. I value having a simple workflow more than having a clear and empty visual setup.
Put simply: it’s more important that everything has a distinct function and to remove anything superfluous than to have the appearance of minimalism.
the cycle
Here’s how the cycle goes:
- I add a cool new tool to my setup
- I use it and gush about it for a while
- The next step follows one of these two paths:
- I realize I can accomplish the same result with a tool I already use
- I realize that the new tool can replace an old tool
- I remove any now-superfluous tools, whether that’s the new tool or one/multiple old tools
As an artifact of this process, I tend to go through alternating periods of installing everything I need on my system and removing everything I don’t need. One day, I’ll install an office suite, conversion tools, photo editing software, and video/audio recording/editing software; a week later I remove almost everything I’d added.
It’s a cycle. The “minimalism” cycle.
not just software
I also go through this process with my desk setup, though I don’t iterate as quickly, because changes in the physical world tend to cost money.
Usually it’s a rearranging of my setup—but it’s also a cycle of putting things I might need in easy reach (reducing friction) and realizing I have duplicated tools out and storing something away. (I don’t need both pencils and pens on my desk’s surface—put those pens in a drawer!)
It’s a less subtle manifestation of the Cycle, but it’s still there.
why?
I have no idea why I go through this constant dance.
The more rational approach would be to start with as simple a setup as possible and slowly add tools as I rigorously evaluate them.
My best guess is that my brain thrives on novelty—I love trying out new things, but I don’t want to have many things. Hence this cycle where I’m constantly trying new tools and recombining old ones.
It means I’m usually in a non-ideal state, but I’m also happier when I’m trying something new, so there’s definitely something to be said for the approach.
It works for me, and at the end of the day that’s often what matters.
Have you seen or gone through the Minimalism Cycle before? What’s your approach to optimizing your workflow?
I’d love to hear from you. My email address is below.
#100DaysToOffload 14/100