Megan Ellis, a contributor at Android Authority, shares her journey through the evolving landscape of productivity apps, emphasizing the importance of finding the right balance in task management. With the rise of productivity applications, individuals often gravitate towards systems that cater to their unique needs. While some prefer all-in-one solutions, others, like Ellis, find solace in segmenting their tasks across multiple platforms.
Having all my tasks in one app became overwhelming
For years, Ellis relied on TickTick, a free app that allowed her to manage tasks effectively through features like snoozing reminders and setting recurring tasks. However, as her life circumstances shifted—transitioning from a full-time job to freelancing and facing increased household responsibilities—she found her previous system faltering. The added strain of health challenges, including chronic pain and fatigue, made it increasingly difficult to keep track of her tasks.
As her reliance on TickTick grew, so did her sense of overwhelm. Notifications that once served as helpful reminders began to feel burdensome, leading to a cycle of procrastination and anxiety. The realization dawned on her that a single app, once a source of organization, had transformed into a source of stress.
When I started tracking chores separately, I noticed a difference
In search of a solution, Ellis stumbled upon Donetick, a self-hosted app designed specifically for chore management. This discovery marked a turning point in her approach to productivity. By separating her household tasks from other responsibilities, she found a newfound clarity. Instead of inundating herself with reminders, she opted for a weekly check-in, allowing her to manage chores without the constant pressure of notifications.
Ellis noted, “Using a separate chores app was the first step towards realizing that using different apps for different tasks made me feel less overwhelmed.” This strategic separation enabled her to stay on top of household responsibilities, alleviating the mental burden that had previously clouded her productivity. Tasks that once loomed large in her mind, such as changing her cats’ litter, became manageable and less stressful.
Multiple apps gave me the right balance
Ellis’s journey continued with the introduction of Jotty Page, another self-hosted app that supports various organizational methods, including checklists and Kanban boards. By integrating this app into her routine, she created a designated space for personal tasks, grocery lists, and work-related projects. The clean interface allowed her to keep track of non-urgent tasks without feeling overwhelmed by the urgency of her primary to-do list.
With the addition of a third app, Ellis experienced a significant reduction in forgetfulness and an increase in task management efficiency. She successfully tackled long-overdue errands, such as obtaining an electrician’s quote and finally servicing her car after two years. The separation of tasks across different platforms not only eased her anxiety but also revitalized her ability to utilize TickTick for its intended purpose—helping her remember important deadlines without the clutter of unrelated tasks.
Ellis’s story serves as a reminder that productivity is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. By embracing a multi-app approach, she discovered a tailored system that works for her unique needs, transforming her relationship with task management. For those feeling overwhelmed by the demands of a single app, exploring diverse tools may provide the clarity and organization necessary to thrive.
