Daily Essential Apps for 2022: My Top Picks
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Chapter 1: My Favorite Daily Apps
In this piece, I'm excited to share an overview of the applications I frequently use in my daily routine. My affinity for apps stems from their ability to streamline our lives, combining functionality with aesthetic appeal. This list includes iOS and Mac applications, although many are also accessible on Android and Windows. Notably, I’ve chosen to exclude social media platforms, as they can often become distractions in our fast-paced world. Let’s jump right in!
Section 1.1: Things 3
One app that stands out in my daily life is Things 3. It has become my go-to to-do list application among a sea of alternatives. Prior to adopting Things 3 across my Apple devices, I had been using Todoist, which is a robust and visually appealing app. However, once I discovered Things 3, I found it to be a perfect fit for my workflow. Initially, the price of around $60 for the app felt daunting, but the investment has proven worthwhile since it is a one-time purchase, and I no longer need to worry about task management. With its stunning design and excellent features, I highly recommend Things 3 for personal task management. If you require collaboration tools, Todoist may better suit your needs.
Before we proceed, some might wonder why I haven’t explored other to-do list apps. I assure you, I’ve tried many, including TickTick, Omnifocus, Nirvana, and others, but I ultimately gravitated towards Things 3.
Section 1.2: YNAB
Managing finances has always been a challenge for me, dating back to high school. I often found myself making impulsive purchases, followed by regret. As someone who enjoys technology, I accumulated gadgets, which provided temporary satisfaction akin to luxury items for others. Eventually, I realized I needed to take control of my spending, prompting my search for budgeting applications. After testing several options, I settled on YNAB (You Need A Budget).
YNAB empowers users to allocate every dollar into specific categories, helping to track spending throughout the month. After using it for nearly two months, I can confidently say it’s a game-changer. Although the subscription costs $14.99 per month or $98.99 annually, YNAB promotes that you’ll save enough to cover the cost. A 34-day free trial is also available for those hesitant to commit right away.
Section 1.3: Revolut
Revolut is another app I use daily; it functions as a digital bank, offering traditional banking features with added flair. Users can directly invest in stocks and cryptocurrencies, as well as access various services like travel bookings and insurance. The user-friendly interface and attractive design make it a staple in my daily routine.
For further insights into Revolut, check out my detailed article on the subject.
Section 1.4: Spark
Finding a reliable email app can be a task, but Spark has been a great solution for me. Mac users know the limited options available, and while there are numerous email apps, many fall short in functionality. Spark combines a sleek design with unique features, such as displaying the sender's icon—something I prefer over the standard Apple Mail interface. The ability to add signatures to emails adds to its appeal, making Spark an excellent choice for both mobile and desktop.
Chapter 2: More of My Top Apps
The first video titled 7 Apps for Productivity (Best 2022 Software Stack) provides an insightful overview of must-have productivity tools for the year.
The second video, The Best FREE Productivity Apps for 2022 (Desktop, iPhone and Android), showcases various free tools to enhance your productivity.
Section 2.1: Lightyear
For investing, I turn to Lightyear, a stock investing app currently available only in the UK. The app's aesthetic and seamless user interface have impressed me since I joined. While it’s a startup, I believe in its potential and look forward to its growth across Europe and beyond.
If you’re in the UK, I encourage you to give Lightyear a try. For more details, refer to my dedicated article on it.
Section 2.2: Beatstar
Beatstar is a mobile game that allows players to engage with popular music tracks by tapping on moving blocks. It’s an entertaining way to pass the time, whether I’m commuting or relaxing at home. The interactive aspect of the game elevates the listening experience beyond standard music apps.
Section 2.3: Everlog
Everlog caught my attention as a journaling app alternative to Day One, which I found too pricey. Although Everlog may lack some features, it shows promise and delivers a satisfactory user experience.
For a deeper dive, check out my article on Everlog.
Section 2.4: RemNote
RemNote is my preferred note-taking app, featuring a bullet outline format. I appreciate its ability to link notes and create flashcards, which enhances my learning process. After two months of use, I’ve transitioned from Notion to RemNote, despite its current lack of database features.
An iOS version is still under development, but Android users can access it now. For more insights into my switch from Notion to RemNote, I’ve written a detailed article.
I hope you found this overview helpful! If you're interested in more technology topics and personal insights, feel free to follow my work. Your support is invaluable as I aim to enhance my content creation, and I appreciate each of you. Stay blessed!