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Apps to Increase Productivity and overcome mental clutter

/ Productivity

Apps to Increase Productivity for a single mom 
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Here are a few of my go-to apps that help me boost productivity when I feel mentally overwhelmed. I have to admit, my journey with technology has been a back-and-forth struggle. As a self-proclaimed pen-and-paper enthusiast in this digital age, I initially resisted the lure of apps. But let’s be honest—sticking a Post-it note on the refrigerator and hoping it will magically stick in my mind isn’t enough anymore.

With a full schedule and endless responsibilities, staying organized and maintaining focus throughout the day can feel like an uphill battle. We’re constantly accessible, and it’s all too easy to get sidetracked by distractions that overshadow important tasks.

Fortunately, I’ve found some relief by incorporating apps that reduce mental clutter and enhance my organization. In this blog, I’ll share the tools and apps that make a difference in my daily life, along with my experiences using them. Join me as we explore ways to reclaim our focus and simplify our lives!

This might be for you if:

  • You arrive late to appointments or just flat out miss them
  • You are starting a new career, passion or project
  • You put tasks off for later (clears throat, procrastinate)
  • You get overwhelmed by making decisions
  • You have not mastered your daily routine
  • You are simply a mother *giggle*

6 Apps and Tools To increase Productivity

Google Docs

  1. Google Docs – Google Docs is a word processor by Google. Most of us have a Google account and would have access to this. If you are a note-taker like me, Google Docs is the app for you. It even allows you to outline your writing with headers, so you don’t have to scroll aimlessly through multiple pages to find a specific note. This particular app has been a game changer in increasing my productivity because it can be accessed seamlessly via phone or desktop. This works for me when I write for my blog. The app is similar to the notion I will discuss below but less interactive and no-nonsense. I can jot notes on the go, and as long as I can log into my account, they are updated and with me wherever I am. As you can see, I use this for my blog posts to write from anywhere and anytime.
Example of Google Docs categories for easy searching within a document.

Google Calendar

2. Google Calendar—Because if it isn’t in my calendar, it doesn’t exist. I started using Google Calendar within the last year, and it has been THE game changer for keeping track of timed appointments and meetings. Plus, it works seamlessly with my Gmail, so I can create appointments and receive notifications when necessary.

Do Not Disturb

3. Do Not Disturb – The hard truth is trying to respond to every notification during a period of focus is distracting, ultimately limiting your productivity. Many of us feel guilty about using this, but it should be used more often. Sometimes, you must turn off the noise to overcome the mental exhaustion.  Make use of your focus settings on your phone. You have them for a reason. If you are worried about missing a call, luckily, there are settings where you can allow calls and messages from specific numbers. 

Notion

4. Notion—This is one of my favorite apps to increase productivity and streamline EVERYTHING. With this app, you can journal, create task lists, add goals, create travel itineraries, bookmark websites, recipes, etc., all in one place! What I love most about this is that you can start with your ultimate goal, break it down into smaller tasks, and move these tasks through a progression plan. AMAZING! 

Notion is a free tool but also has premium plans that I would recommend if you are working with a team or want a way to streamline tasks with your family for family reunions, weddings, etc.

Luckily, paid plans start at $8 a month so if you find you would benefit more from this offer. GO FOR IT!

Google Task

5. Google Tasks—This productivity app allows you to schedule and create task lists. It integrates with your Gmail inbox to seamlessly add a task from an email. I can’t tell you how many webinars I have in my email that I could easily schedule through Tasks.

Daily Planner

6. Daily Planner – My handy dandy. My rider. I love using my planner

It may be hard to believe, but few people still utilize a physical planner. I use mine for meal plans, scheduling work tasks down to the hour, and my random to-do’s. Something about the feeling of manually checking off a list works for me. I remember things more effectively when I write them down, so I don’t think I could ever give up my trusty planner. If you want to overcome the mental clutter and get things on paper, this is the way to go!

Here is a link to purchase a planner similar to what I currently use:

planner

As a single parent, the challenge of juggling appointments, commitments, and to-dos for both yourself and your children can be challenging. When just one obligation slips through the cracks, it can throw your entire schedule into disarray. And let’s not forget about decision fatigue—making countless choices for the household is no small feat!

To navigate these challenges, I’ve found that implementing different certain strategies can make a significant difference. By prioritizing self-care and staying organized, we can enhance our daily productivity and create a more balanced home environment. 

I invite you to subscribe to my blog for updates on new posts, where I’ll share additional tips on how to maximize your daily life through smart planning and self-care. I would also love to hear your insights! How do you maintain productivity throughout your busy days as a parent? Share your ideas in the comments below; together, we can build a community of support and understanding.

If this list provided insight on streamlining your day with apps and tools, check out my post on Time management tips for busy moms.

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