Three great gadgets for your home
I’m in a place you’d normally find me. Sat comfortably on my couch writing on my MacBook. I love it here. There are some things around me that really enhance the experience and help me feel better, so I thought I’d share them with you.
I’d like to suggest three great gadgets for your home. Things I find essential.
This isn’t a commercial, it’s just me pointing out what I find special. I’m not even recommending specific products. They’re just things that make my home cosy and help me do what I do. My first little luxury is something that helps keep me going.
A coffee machine
I have a Nespresso machine and it’s the way I treat myself. When I’m at home, coffee is a big part of my morning routine. I’m normally sat at my desk and a couple of cups really get me going. I often feel like I’m ready for anything when I’m done.
There’s also that coffee smell and the great taste. I’ve treated myself to a milk frother as well, so it’s just like a latte I’d get on-the-go. It makes a difference when you can just press a button.
As I’ve said, this is a way I treat myself. Something nice and easy that can also fuel creativity. It’s something I value that feels right. I know it’s all about that dopamine hit, but there are worse things out there you could rely on.
I’d take a look at what coffee machines would suit you if this sounds interesting. I’ve found something else that enhances the coffee experience as well, and that’s music.
Smart speakers
I like having music around me. It’s always been a huge part of my life. I’ve moved away from lyrical music in recent years though, as it’s become something that’s there around me, fuelling work and creativity. I really appreciate my HomePods, as I can stream music to them or just call out requests.
Right now, a creative track is playing in the background from the Brain FM app. It’s really got me in the right frame of mind. I can transfer it to another room if I need to as well, or just let it surprise me with a random sample.
I’d have a think about how you use and enjoy your music. Just try having some non-lyrical music in the background if you need to do some work. You’re sure to be surprised what happens. There are plenty of smart speakers out there, I use HomePods but you may want to think about what Sonos offer if you’re serious about it.
I’d also consider how music can help you relax. There’s no attention engineering.
As I write this, it’s a late winter afternoon. As I’ve said, I’ve been fuelled by some lovely coffee and have the right audio playing in the background. It’s getting dark though, so I’ll need to put on the lights. Fortunately, I have something that comes in handy.
Smart lights
I have Philips Hue bulbs. They’re linked to my smart speaker so I just have to ask it to turn them on. I can also set the precise levels I want via apps on all my devices. This helps me get comfortable.
I can set the right tone. It can help me relax and really appreciate them when I’m unwinding before bed, when I want everything as dim as possible. It’s all about creating an environment where you can be comfortable and get things done when you need to.
This also helps me manage those all important serotonin and melatonin levels. That’s essential when it comes to sleep.
There are plenty of smart lights out there and you don’t need fancy colours and features. Just a plain white light that can dim can make a difference. I’d have a think about these.
So these are the three great gadgets I suggest you think about. Tasty coffee to give you a lift, a soundtrack to your life and a comfortable and cosy environment. I hope it’s got you thinking about how you can make your home more comfortable and set it up to help you be at your best.