Getting More Done: Expanding Contexts

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It occurred to me the other day, as I was packing my briefcase, that I haul quite a bit of stuff with me everywhere. While I do try to limit things, I would never be able to walk into work with just my purse. And that is because I carry things with me in order to work on them. By hauling around my briefcase, I have actually expanded my contexts, so I can get more done in more places.

Ways to expand contexts

There are many ways to expand contexts. Here are four that I use regularly:

Cell phone

While I don’t use my cell phone for business, I do use my cell phone to keep in touch with family. I usually call my parents when I am driving home from work. I usually have my cell with me, and if I am in a place where I need to make a call, I can do it right then, rather than waiting until I am near my home phone.

Electronic input

I keep many things on the computer, even though I revel in the feel and use of paper. Electronic is easier for me, however, so I have accepted my fate. I usually have my PDA with me, but I recently started carrying another electronic device: my PDA portable keyboard. Using this device allows me to input data at my typing speed instead of my Graffiti speed. The keyboard allows me to do much more, things that I would have put off before with only a stylus available to me.

Office In A Bag

This is a Flylady product: my Office in a Bag. This durable binder cover has pockets in the front that I keep pens, highlighters and sticky notes, as well as stamps and address labels. A plastic pocket I keep in the front cover has a sympathy card, a blank card, and some pretty stationery. The binder is divided into sections: Inbox, Family/Home, Work, and Other. I have plastic pockets that contain information for the projects I am currently working on so that I always have reference material at hand for my next task. This one tool allows me to do whatever I need to do on the go.

Audio Books

An avid reader before I had children, I suddenly found myself with a lot less time to read. (For all you who are parents, go ahead and chuckle.) Using Audible.com, I actually get to “read”. I don’t have the heaviness of a book to carry with me, and I can “read” while exercising, doing housework, or walking the dog.

Summary

I hope this has given you some good ideas on how to expand contexts. What are your favorite ways?