Huffington Magazine Issue 64-65 | Page 88

Exit HEN IT COMES to productivity, technology is a doubleedged sword. For every technological time-saver, there’s a new distraction that sweeps in to steal the precious time you just saved. Unfortunately, our smartphones may be doing as much harm as good: A recent British survey estimated that we spend roughly 23 days a year looking at our phones, and it’s safe to say much of that time isn’t exactly helping us get more done. Although unplugging can sometimes be the best way to boost productivity, a smartphone can be an incredibly helpful tool for simplifying tasks and organizing your work and personal life — if you have the right tools. From the note-saving app that’s been called “last notebook you’ll ever need” to a brain-mapping tool to guide your most productive brainstorming session ever, ahead, find seven apps that will help boost your productivity — and streamline your life. HUFFINGTON 09.01-08.13 STRESS LESS COURTESY OF CLEAR W CLEAR ($1.99) Called “The iPhone’s most beautiful to-do list app” by The Verge, Clear is a productivity app for those who care about aesthetics just as much — if not more — than functionality. But it’s also incredibly user-friendly: Just swipe to check an item off the list, and simply shake your phone for the option to email your list. The user can also create separate lists for work, shopping, personal goals and more. Gizmodo deems it “perfect for busy people.”