[aonsager]

I think that "simple" rather than "minimal" is an important distinction that is sometimes overlooked. Sometimes adding something new will let you reduce a lot of friction.

For example, a paper journal or a plain text to-do list is very minimal, but I've found that having a dedicated to-do app is the best way for me to simplify my workflow.

* I can dump in new tasks with a quick keystroke as they come up and manage them later

* I can set a date for upcoming things and get automatic reminders

* I can make recurring tasks repeat automatically

* I can keep a backlog of completed tasks out of sight until I need to refer to something

Or, when my room is messy that usually means things are left out where I use them and are usually within reach. When I tidy up and put things away, I need to spend effort thinking about where something is, go get it, and put it away again when I'm done with it. Messy can be simpler than clean.