| > I would love to see a site where people posted stuff they have been doing for over a year and it still works for them. Here's the one thing that's stuck with me: I started carrying earplugs with me in 2002. I was forced into it by the Army, but I've kept it up all these years because of how great it is. They completely disappear into the pocket, and when you want them, you *really* want them. But they're great, even when most people wouldn't think they "need" them. Here's some examples: * Using power tools like a blender, mixer, or lawn mower.
* Sleeping during the day, in a strange place, or around other people (e.g. on an airplane).
* Working in a public space like the library, a coffee shop, a bus, or an airplane. If you like going to shows or dancing, they're great to have in case you need them. I think the benefit of earplugs has decreased for the average person since noise cancelling earbuds are so widely available, but in my experience earplugs both block more sound and they block different things. Of course the downside is, you can't listen to audio with them in. But the upside is you never have to worry about charging them. In my experience, the reusable flange style earplugs are fine for light use, but they can sometimes be painful with extended wear (6+ hrs per day for months at a time). I went out and got a bulk pack of foamies, which I assume will last me the rest of my life. The only downside to the foam earplugs is, if you get them wet, you can reuse them. I suspect they've worked particularly well for me because I think being bored for some amount of time during the day is healthy, and I find I get distracted by listening to music or podcasts. The benefit:weight, volume, and price is absolutely amazing. |