How I Use Technology To Stay Organized
How I Use Technology to Stay Organized
Like it or not, technology is here to stay. It feels like there’s always a phone, computer, or app update rolling out with new and improved features. Sometimes, I appreciate the upgrades, but other times, I just wish things would stay the same so I don’t have to relearn tools I already know and love. Who’s got time for that? Seriously, Instagram, can we just keep things the same for a few hot minutes?
That said, I’ve come to embrace technology—at least the parts that make life easier. There are countless apps and features out there, but the key is to find what works for you. Whether you rely heavily on technology or prefer to keep things minimal, there’s something for everyone.
As a busy person juggling work, family, and life, I do my best to maintain balance—but let’s be real, things are always moving. Even with just one child, our schedule is packed with swim lessons, dance class, school activities, birthday parties, and of course, everyday tasks like grocery shopping, house maintenance, and feeding the cats.
In the middle of all that, ideas pop into my head constantly. I used to rely on mental notes, but—spoiler alert—that never worked. I’d get home thinking, What was that great idea I had? And just like that, it would vanish. So frustrating!
That’s why I now rely on certain apps and tools to capture those thoughts and keep me on track.
My Go-To Tech Tools for Staying Organized
(I must note that i use Apple products…so if you have an android or google phone, some of these apps may not be available)
1. Siri – My Hands-Free Assistant
When I’m driving and can’t write something down, Siri is my BFF. I’ll say, “Hey Siri, remind me at 6 p.m. to order a birthday gift for Cici.” That way, the thought doesn’t disappear, and I can check my reminders later.
I use Siri for everything—from adding items to my shopping list to setting reminders for business ideas, gifts, and even taking out the trash.
Hey “Siri!” remind me at 1pm to hire a professional home organizer.
How to Use Siri for Reminders:
✅ Activate Siri by saying "Hey Siri" or holding down the side button.
✅ Say, "Remind me at [time] to [task]."
✅ Check your Reminders app later to review your tasks.
2. Reminders App – Keeping Me on Track
The Reminders app helps me stay on top of daily tasks. Whether it’s client follow-ups or household chores, setting alerts ensures I don’t forget anything important.
Pro Tip: Organize reminders into categories like work, personal, and shopping lists. You can also set priority levels or recurring reminders for tasks that happen regularly, like weekly meal planning or monthly bill payments.
3. Notes App – My Digital Notebook
The Notes app is a lifesaver! I use it to:
📌 Take notes during in-home consultations.
📌 Keep track of research for projects.
📌 Share lists with my husband—we have one for our home and another for travel.
📌 Create to-do lists with checkboxes (so satisfying to check things off!).
One of the best features? You can lock notes for added privacy. I use this for sensitive business information or personal planning.
4. Libby App – Free Audiobooks on the Go
For all the book lovers out there, Libby is a must! This free app lets you borrow audiobooks and eBooks from your local library.
I mostly use it for business and organizing books, but it’s become a game-changer for road trips too! Our daughter gets carsick easily, so she can’t read or color while driving, but she loves listening to audiobooks. One of our favorite series is Squirrel Girl!
We also listen to books at 1.25x speed to get through them faster—any faster, and I can’t keep up with the narrator!
Why I Love Libby:
✔️ Completely free (just link your library card).
✔️ Access to audiobooks, eBooks, and magazines.
✔️ You can reserve physical copies at your local library.
✔️ Download books to listen offline.
5. Calendar App – My Non-Negotiable Essential
I honestly don’t know how people managed before digital calendars! My Calendar app keeps my husband’s, daughter’s, and my schedules in sync. If it’s not in the calendar, it doesn’t exist.
For events scheduled far in advance, I set a reminder a week ahead so they don’t sneak up on me.
Side note: I almost missed a birthday party my daughter was invited to, but thanks to a calendar notification, we made it on time—no awkward apologies necessary!
Favorite Features:
🗓 Color-coding for different schedules (work, personal, family).
🗓 Shared calendars with my husband.
🗓 Recurring events for ongoing appointments.
6. Screen Time Limits – Keeping Scrolling in Check
I set time limits on certain apps—especially Instagram—because otherwise, I could scroll for hours. If you struggle with self-control and mindless scrolling, I highly recommend setting time limits for entertainment apps.
That way, when you get your weekly screen time report, you won’t cringe—you’ll sigh happily!
7. Google Photos – Automatic Photo Organization
I take tons of photos—especially for work! Google Photos keeps everything backed up and organized. The search feature is amazing; I can type "kitchen organizing project" and find exactly what I need.
Why Google Photos is a Lifesaver:
📷 Automatic backups.
📷 Smart search (find photos by keyword).
📷 Shared albums with family.
📷 Memories and collages automatically created for you.
Finding the Right Balance
Once upon a time, I resisted technology. I was the last of my friends to get a cell phone (hello, adorable Nokia flip phone!) and swore by my paper planner.
Truth be told, I still use a paper calendar, but now it complements my digital one rather than replacing it. You don’t have to use every app out there, but embracing a few key tools can make life so much easier. And the best part? Many of them are free!
Your Turn!
What tech tools do you use to stay on track? Do you have a favorite app that you swear by? Let me know—I’d love to hear your recommendations send me an email here.
If you live in Salem, OR or surrounding areas and need help organizing a space in your home, reach out to Tailored Organizing today! We’d LOVE to help you!
Happy Organizing!
XO,
Jen