What makes a great tool

What makes a great tool?

A premium notebook that’s so pretty you daren’t write in it… or a cheap notebook so quick to scuff that you enjoy using it and throwing it around?

Software that’s slick and minimal, but does half the things you need with bugs to fix… or software that’s old and clunky-looking, but does everything you need with bugs long fixed?

An e-reader that holds thousands of books but needs replacing as the tech ages… or a handful of dog-eared physical books you’ve felt, re-read, and deeply internalized?

The latest smartphone with the latest distracting features… or an old basic phone that never pulls you away from your focused, meaningful work?

No right or wrong answers. There’s something for everyone. But it’s worth asking yourself what makes a great tool, then shopping for that, instead of just buying what the marketing says.