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by akg 5256 days ago
One of the best things I've done recently is get rid of my TV and Netflix account (to avoid streaming on my laptop). I've also got rid of my internet connection (so I can't mindless browse the net).

When I do need the internet I usually just head down to a local coffee shop to check emails (usually twice a day), download API docs, etc. Plus I get a nice break and get to have a nice coffee. You'll be surprised how much you are not missing out by delaying emails and twitter checks. I've found my productivity has increased significantly since I'm less distracted with twitter updates, chat messages, incoming mails, etc. And of course, for emergency internet connectivity, I always have my iPhone + 3G. The iPhone is great, since it is perfect for emergency look ups of information but a hindrance enough to not aimlessly browse the web. I also like that HN doesn't have a nice mobile compatible style sheet ;-)
2 comments
digitalsushi 5256 days ago
I got frustrated with the web this weekend. My ability to use it as an expert has waned. If we can make the assumption that the proportion of self-promotion increases over time, I believe there is a personal inflection point where the average new information being consumed is a falsehood. I say personal since every person has their own threshold for truthfulness.

When I claim to be an expert, I just mean that I used to be pretty good at finding stuff I wanted to find. Google is the tool I have overused, ignoring better, newer filters as they have come wayside.

So I feel like just turning the whole damned thing off and learning the "slow" way might be the new way to be the fast way.

2015, want to find it fast? Flip open the index of a hard cover and start scanning.

link
paulhauggis 5256 days ago
This wouldn't work for me. My business requires me to have at least some internet connectivity at home (customer complaints, servers down, etc). I also like to surf/watch netflix streaming movies on the weekends.

I've gained a lot of knowledge through Internet research on various subjects (I cancelled cable awhile back).

It's more difficult, but I've learned how to just stop messing around and focusing on my work.

link