Hi, I’m Tony Greenberg, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned as a lifelong productivity enthusiast, it’s this: success isn’t just about working harder—it’s about working smarter. Whether you’re battling inbox chaos, struggling to juggle priorities, or wondering if your colleagues are secretly baboons (more on that later), the right tools can transform how you work and live.
But productivity isn’t just about the apps you use; it’s also about how you interact with people. If you’ve ever been ghosted over email or experienced a meeting where no one knew why they were there, you’re not alone. Productivity and courtesy go hand in hand—and I’ve got articles to prove it.
Before we dive into the best productivity tools of 2024, take a moment to read my articles on basic business etiquette and baboon behavior in email ghosting. They’ll help you pair these apps with the social smarts you need to succeed.
Now, let’s get to the tech that changed my life this year.
- Beeper: All Your Messages, One App
Website: Beeper.com
Beeper combines every messaging platform—Signal, Telegram, WhatsApp, Instagram, Gmail, and more—into one sleek app. It’s like herding cats but without the chaos.
Snark Alert: If you’re still frantically app-switching to reply to Aunt Karen’s message on three platforms, Beeper is here to save you.
Pro Tip: Set custom notifications for VIPs so you don’t miss the important stuff while blissfully ignoring meme-filled group chats.
- EmailMeter: The Email Analyst
Website: EmailMeter.com
EmailMeter dissects your inbox to reveal your email habits and productivity patterns. It tracks response times, email volumes, and team communication efficiency, so you can stop wondering why your inbox always feels overwhelming.
Snark Alert: If your inbox is where emails go to die, EmailMeter is about to turn you into a response-time ninja.
Pro Tip: Use the insights to improve your email courtesy. Ghosting isn’t just rude; it’s bad for business. Read my piece on baboon-inspired email ghosting to find out why communication integrity matters.
- Sunsama: Your Day, Designed
Website: Sunsama.com
Sunsama is a task manager that integrates with your calendar to help you focus on what truly matters. It’s like having a personal assistant who politely nudges you to stop wasting time.
Snark Alert: If your daily planning involves sticky notes and a prayer, Sunsama is here to make you feel both inadequate and incredibly productive.