March 2017 | The reader and the writer
If AT&T is like a lot of companies out there, they’re scanning our email (we do get that terrifying disclaimer every time we log in…), and if they’re interested, they could be mining our emails for signs of emotional upheaval. I want to mess with the system, so if you get an upbeat, happy message from me, followed by several sad faces, you’ll know why.
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STOP SPYING ON ME, AT&T
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INSPIRE ME, OFFICE SPACE
Architects and neuroscientists have defined some of the things we need to be creative – unique work environments throughout our workspaces, blue paint (to trick us into thinking we’re outside on a sunny day), green plants (again, because we’re not meant to be cooped up indoors all day), and both soaring ceilings and small solo spaces (but not in the same spot because that would be confusing). When can you provide me this gorgeous space, AT&T? I’m ready for it.
Related: Developers need quiet spaces too.
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TAKE LONG BREAKS
Nestled in this long article defining the various ways we cheat ourselves out of time, energy, and productivity each day are these fun facts that will increase your creativity:
· Take long breaks.
· Get in a nap if you can.
· Don’t beat yourself up.
· Breathe like a child.
This was written by Phyllis Korkki, the author of the book with the best title ever, "The Big Thing: How to Complete Your Creative Project Even if You're a Lazy, Self-Doubting Procrastinator Like Me."
Hamburger menus are so subtle, so tidy, but out of sight, out of mind. If it’s not in your face, you’re not gonna use it.
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DON'T HIDE THE MENU
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HOW TO SUPPORT WRITERS
Financially, I mean. The Internet makes us feel like everything should be free, but what I remember from 10thgrade Econ class is TINSTAAFL: There is no such thing as a free lunch. Creators – like you and me and journalists – should be paid for their work. I love supporting good journalism, but there are only so many newspaper and magazine subscriptions I can handle in my life. Blendle lets you read – and pay for – newspaper and magazine articles on a per-article basis. Pretty rad. The average cost per article is 25 cents. What? I know. 25 cents! You have 25 cents to support journalism.