Simplest Change with Maximum Effect
Lately, I have been obsessed with efficiency. I wanted to automate as much of my life as possible. I tried to learn Python, VBA etc. Learning all these take time. Therefore, to deploy something useful will take weeks if not months.
I asked myself what is the smallest and simplest change that I can get maximum efficiency? The answer is to look into existing tools that I have now.
- Learn the shortcuts. By learning all the shortcuts, I would save time without touching the mouse.
- Learn the functions. Whatever complexity that I am facing, likely that the application developer would have anticipated it. Therefore, the solution could be hidden inside the application. I just need to understand the application better.
If option 1 and 2 fails, then I should consider deploying a new tool or writing my own script.
Note: Before you immediately jump into automation. Do ask that whether the task is necessary? If is not important, drop the tasks. That's the fastest and most efficient way to save time.