How I Work

Location: Columbus, Ohio

Current gig: Independent Contractor at Hosting Made Easy

Current mobile device: Google Pixel 3 XL (I have big hands)

Current computer: ASUS Q534UX

One word that best describes how you work: Adaptable. I am able to quickly change the way I work in order to best suit the situation.

What apps/software/tools can’t you live without?: Google Drive, Google Calendar, Gmail, T-Sheets, YouTube, Todoist, Spotify

What’s your workspace like?

My workplace tends to be wherever I am needed across downtown Columbus. I am constantly on the go, and I enjoy the freedom that comes with that. At home, my workplace is my room. It doesn’t have any bells and whistles, but I am still able to be productive with my tiny IKEA desk and not-very-comfortable chair.

What’s your best time-saving trick?

My best method would have to be a mix of two cliches. It would be a combination of K.I.S.S (Keep it simple, stupid) and Murphy’s Law (If there is a wrong way to do something, then someone will do it). I do realize there are other variants of Murphy’s Law, however this version applies most to my job. Most days, I constantly encounter guest who are unable to access their rooms, and are calling me for help. In order to expedite the process of helping them, I follow the aforementioned adages. Most guess fall into the K.I.S.S category, with me simply needing to remind them to view an e-mail sent to them previously with instructions on how to access the room. Occasionally; however, guest will fall into the Murphy’s Law category. No matter what I seem to suggest, none of my normal solutions seem to be working. In this case, I personally drive to the location and try to solve it in person. This allows clearer communication, and I am almost always able to solve the issue in a shorter amount of time than over the phone.

What’s your favorite to-do list manager?

I use Todoist almost every day. It allows me to have everything I need done in one place. It is simple to operate and overall aesthetically pleasing.

Besides your phone and computer, what gadget can’t you live without?

A bluetooth speaker. It may seem an odd choice, but you never know when you can use one. I keep one in my car, and one at home. Whether I am studying at home or out with my friends, I am constantly using my speakers as opposed to headphones.

What everyday thing are you better at than anyone else?

Coffee runs. After one trip, I am almost always able to remember my coworkers order’s. It is something, that while seemingly trivial, has helped me get jobs.

What are you currently reading?

I am currently reading Boy on Ice by John Branch as well as Infantry Attacks by Erwin Rommel.

What do you listen to while you work?

I listen to a variety of podcast including Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard and The Joe Rogan Experience. I also listen to a variety of music for country to EDM.

Are you more of an introvert or an extrovert?

I am very introverted but working on breaking out of my shell. Most days, I tend to stick with my core group of friends and coworkers; however, I have been trying to branch out by attending company outings and meeting new people. I am going through a personal challenge this week of saying “Hello” to every person I come across this week.

What’s your sleep routine like?

It is not good. Some nights I am in bed by 9pm, while others I am up until 2am. I have been working to moderate my sleep schedule and, slowly but surely, regulate it more and more.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

“No matter what you face, try to put a positive spin on it”. I find it easy to get sucked into only seeing the negative side of my experiences, but I often remind myself of this advice in order to keep me motivated and in pursuit of my goals.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

While my current method of working has been challenging, I have been working on refining it and making myself a better professional.

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