The Value of Minimalism in Productivity

We live in a time of constant distraction ads, notifications, and endless consumer options all compete for our attention. It’s no surprise that many of us get caught up in buying things that seem useful but ultimately turn into excess.

I’ve been guilty of falling into this cycle of consumerism myself. I bought things that promised to make me more productive, only to realize later that they weren’t necessary. Over time, I’ve slowly refined my daily essentials, minimizing what I carry and focusing only on what truly supports my work and learning.

Purchases I Regret

Some items that ended up being more excess than essential:

• Arzopa Portable Monitor
• Ergonomic Keyboard
• iPad
• Charging Bank

While these products had their appeal, they ultimately added clutter rather than clarity.

Pivoting to Minimalism

These days, I’ve embraced a more minimalist setup that better aligns with my actual needs:

• ThinkPad T14 (Windows) – my go-to for school and development
• Notebook & Journal – simple tools for writing and reflection
• Boox Palmer 10.5 Tablet – for notes and reading
• Compact bag with only essentials: wired headphones and a few Type-C chargers (since all my devices, including my iPhone, now use Type-C)

This refined everyday carry gives me what I need without unnecessary extras. It’s lighter, more practical, and keeps me focused.

Looking Ahead

In another post, I’ll break down this setup in more detail and share how each item plays a role in my workflow. For now, I’ve found that minimizing not only what I own but also what I carry daily has been a huge step toward clarity and productivity.

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What are the essentials you carry every day?