1. Logitech MX Master 3S Mouse (£89.99)

There has been considerable criticism surrounding the Apple Magic Mouse, and much of it is well-founded.

I used one for several years, courtesy of my employer, and while I thought it was adequate at the time, I grew increasingly frustrated with the frequent need to recharge it for hours. After being made redundant in 2023, I returned the Apple Mouse and upgraded to the MX Master 3S, which has been a game-changer.

This mouse is not only much more comfortable to hold, but it also allows seamless switching between three devices and customizable buttons tailored to the software in use. This adaptability has greatly improved my workflow efficiency. Additionally, recharging is hassle-free—simply plug in a cable and continue working instead of scrambling for a lightning cable.

2. Hightide Hourglass (L) — Green (£35)

I must confess that I only purchased my timer a few weeks ago, so some might argue it’s too soon to include it in this list. However, in the short time it has been paired with my Sony MX5 headphones, I’ve noticed a significant boost in my focus, leading to more fluid writing.

This improvement is largely thanks to the Pomodoro Technique, which I’ve found incredibly beneficial lately. For those unfamiliar, it involves 25 minutes of intense, distraction-free work followed by a five-minute break. The hourglass timer is perfect for this, as I can simply flip it over and dive into my tasks. My headphones enhance my concentration by blocking out background noise and providing quality white noise through my favorite app, Portal.

Beyond its functionality, the hourglass adds aesthetic value to my workspace with its attractive design and soft green glow, making it a more engaging commitment to my work than a standard phone timer.

3. Readwise (£69.99 for the year)

I’ve shared my thoughts on Readwise in the past. It serves as the core of my data collection system, which is integral to about 90% of the content I generate. Prior to 2023, Readwise had limitations, primarily collecting highlights from digital books.

However, this year saw the launch of the Reader app, which expands its capabilities to include highlights from various sources such as Twitter/X, web pages, PDFs, and videos. This significant upgrade has allowed me to gather information from a multitude of platforms.

Moreover, the integration between Readwise and Reader means that I can highlight content directly, automatically categorizing it in my personal knowledge management system. This streamlines my ability to compile thoughts, ideas, and quotes from diverse sources, enhancing my writing quality while reducing the time needed to produce content. For content creators, Readwise is indispensable; I couldn’t manage my work without it. If you’re curious, you can start with a special sixty-day trial.

4. Skechers Hands Free Slip-Ins (£85)

This year brought numerous challenges, with one of the most significant being a stroke that resulted in a six-month hospital stay and three months of intensive rehabilitation aimed at regaining mobility.

Getting on my feet was a monumental task, and I struggled to put on traditional trainers that required two hands and the dexterity of fingers that didn’t always cooperate. Then, a physiotherapist introduced me to her Skechers, and I decided to order a pair the same day.

These shoes are incredibly comfortable and, true to their name, allow my feet to effortlessly "slip in." The design eliminates the need for laces, enabling me to focus on my recovery instead of enduring pain while trying to wear regular shoes. The Skechers have undoubtedly been the most impactful purchase of my year.

5. Keychron Q1 Keyboard — Version 2 (£135)

Over the past 18 months, I’ve become increasingly fascinated with mechanical keyboards. While I previously raved about my Keychron K7, the Q1 holds its own as a remarkable piece of equipment.

The K7 is a lightweight, low-profile board with Bluetooth capabilities, perfect for on-the-go use. In contrast, the Q1 is a robust desktop keyboard that necessitates a wired connection to a single device.

The tactile feedback is immensely satisfying. I opted for the red version featuring Gateron G Pro Brown switches and learned firsthand how costly keycaps can be while customizing its appearance. Although the K7 remains a staple for portability, the Q1 has firmly established itself on my home office desk, and I don’t foresee that changing anytime soon—unless I decide to build my own keyboard from scratch.

A Final Note

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