Micro-efficiencies: Wired or Wireless?
For a long time, I used a wireless keyboard. I liked how it looked on my desk. It helped me keep things neat and tidy. Yet, it was old and worn out. It glitched and lagged. A lot. I’d pound on certain uncooperative keys in frustration when it wasn’t working.
Fed up with this, I ordered a new wireless keyboard on Amazon. In the meantime, I still needed to type. I dug out an ugly old wired keyboard. With disdain, I plugged it into my computer and draped the cord across my otherwise pristine desk. And I got back to work.
I noticed the difference quickly. The wired keyboard worked GREAT. No lag time. No glitches. No more frustrations or delays.
I chuckled at myself. Of course it’s faster. It’s plugged directly into the computer. I loved reclaiming a more fluid workflow. I realized that this small change had made me a little more efficient. And perhaps most importantly, it made me feel a LOT more efficient.
I’m on the computer all day. The fractions of a second add up. Sometimes, I’d glare at the screen where the words I’d dutifully typed failed to appear. Other times, I’d lose my flow as I waited to see if the words on screen would catch up with the input I gave the keyboard.
These small, repeated frustrations add up. And they chip away at your mental capacity.
I hadn’t realized the fluidity and efficiency I had given up for aesthetics.
After a couple days, I forgot about the unsightly cord trailing across my desk. It seemed to fade in and fit naturally with my other stuff. I took this as a sign from the universe that “wired” was the way to go. I told myself that if it really irks me, I can always bundle up the cord at the end of the day.
This seemingly small change with outsized consequences made me think:
Where else can we find some easy opportunities to regain “micro-efficiencies?”
What other little things can we do to save ourselves some mental and emotional energy?
For more insights like this, subscribe to my newsletter!
About The Author
Emily Sander is an ICF-certified leadership coach with more than 15 years of experience in the business world and the author of Hacking Executive Leadership. She’s been featured in several print publications, online articles, and podcasts, including CEO Today Magazine, Leading to Fulfillment, and Leadership Powered by Common Sense.
Emily has a passion for helping business leaders reach their full potential. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach. If you want to send Emily a quick message, then visit her contact page here.