The Iterative Life

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Latest — Jan 21, 2025

Embracing Slow Productivity: Finding Balance in a Fast-Paced World

Introduction Do you have an author whose work you tend to consume cover to cover? For me, that author is Cal Newport. Ever since I read "Deep Work," I've been captivated by his writing and podcasts. I even added his articles in The New Yorker to

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Reflecting on Three Months of The Iterative Life

Introduction It’s hard to believe it has already been three months since I started this blog. When I first began writing, I envisioned this space as an outlet to share the small, iterative changes that have improved my life over time. The concept was largely inspired by Atomic Habits

My Process for Building Morning and Evening Routines That Work

Introduction Let me paint a picture of a likely scenario: You wake up in the morning about 30 minutes before you have to be out the door or into your home office to work. You rush through a shower, pop a coffee pod into your Keurig, and heat up a

My Journey to Sobriety: Why I Decided to Stop Drinking Alcohol

Introduction I am a data junkie. I’ve monitored health metrics using my Oura Ring, Garmin watch, and most recently, a Coros smartwatch. I analyze this data for trends to help inform my workout strategies and recovery actions. One key metric I frequently examine in recovery is Heart Rate Variability

Finding the Perfect Self-Hosted Notes App: Setting Up the Experiment

Introduction Today, you’re in for a treat: you get to see my process for setting up an experiment to find the right self-hosted note-taking app. If you’re someone who values simplicity, Markdown, and owning your data, this post is for you. I’m a dedicated note-taker. Every day,

5 Quick Win Categories to Simplify Your Daily Life

Introduction Do you ever start your day by looking at your task list and feel instantly overwhelmed? Or maybe you have a backlog of decisions to make but no idea where to begin? You’re not alone. I’ve been there myself—regularly. That was until I discovered the power

The Art of Monthly Reviews: Reflecting on Your Progress to Propel Forward

Introduction: Why Monthly Reviews Matter As someone committed to the iterative life, I’ve learned that regular reflection is essential to ensure that the experiments and projects I’m pursuing are: 1. Contributing positively toward the person I aspire to be. 2. Not stalling or drifting off course. The process

Goodbye QWERTY, Hello Colemak: My Split Keyboard Success Story

Introduction: Why Experiment with Keyboards and Layouts? As someone who spends at least 40 hours a week on a computer, most of that time typing, I am keenly aware of claims about typing optimization. Over time, I’ve noticed the aches and pains caused by reaching for distant keys, radial

Balancing Running and Lifting: My Approach

Balancing running and lifting has transformed my fitness routine, offering strength, endurance, and injury prevention. I share tips for hybrid training, from setting goals to optimizing recovery and tracking progress. Discover how to train smarter, not harder, and achieve lasting results.

Experimenting with Habits: What I’m Testing Now

I’m testing new habits and tools, from cold plunges to ease post-workout inflammation, to a post-work walk for a mental reset. These routines, plus task apps like Things 3 and ergonomic tools like Colemak keyboards, help me refine my day-to-day for better productivity and health.