How I Work

My days at work are very interesting. Dabbling in AP/AR, IT, HR, Accounting, Financial planning, Crisis handling, Problem solving, Equipment delivering, and much more. A lot tends to happen in my day and this is a sort of blog that spells it out. (Look familiar? Format from Lifehacker.com How-I-Work series.)



Name: Sean Coleman
Occupation: Jack-of-all-trades for Genesis Fiber Optics.
Location: Portsmouth, VA
Current mobile device: iPhone 5
Current computer: Dell Desktop running 2 SSD's- Windows 7
I work: Joyfully

What apps/software/tools can't you live without?

Quickbooks online is an amazing program. Completely cloud based, not a day goes by without heavy usage of it. I am discovering new uses for it on a very regular basis as well.

I use Evernote to cut down on as much paper as possible. Almost all mail is scanned, put into Evernote, then shredded. I love having the digital database to search through as well, as opposed to having to sift through a filing cabinet.

I use Lastpass on a daily basis for filling out MANY forms. Fantastic program.

Besides your phone and computer, what gadget can't you live without?

The iPad has essentially replaced my computer at this point. Since most of my tools are in the cloud, I can do a lot of things from it.

What's your workspace like?

Somewhat messy- but a structured mess. Just about every item on my desk is a physical to-do list, reminding me that in order to clean it, I have to attend to what it refers to. I tend to shy away from open windows, and personal things on the desk. When i am working, I am definitely in this type of "zone" or other-world mindset where I am completely focused on the task at hand- this has been brought to my attention as being "odd"- I do have a few books (Bible, Case for Christ, Case for Faith) and video game cases though!

What do you listen to while you work?

Depends on the type of work I'm doing. Most of the time I enjoy working in complete silence, but if it's a type of data-entry or not very thought intensive- I'll throw on a Spotify playlist, or a Podcast.

  

What's your best time-saving trick/life hack?

Reminders reminders reminders- my whole life is based on them. I love putting something on some sort of reminder basis, and moving immediately to the next task. between that and intense note taking- it's how I get through the tasks of a lot of days.

As noted in the picture above, i tend to leave important things on or around doors as to not forget them when leaving. This has not always worked...

What's your favorite to-do list manager?

I use multiple! Sticky notes for things that have to eventually get done, email, paper on desk, Outlook calendar, and my favorite- Siri/Iphone. It's on me all the time- so it will always remind me when that all important task needs to be done.

What's your sleep routine like?

Most of the time I am to bed at 10-10:30pm- up at 7:30-8. Oddly enough I am still capable of the occasional 3am video game binge every once in a while.  

What everyday thing are you better at than anyone else? What's your secret?

I would say not ever forgetting a task. It immediately goes into some sort of system designed for me to remember it later, if it is not done right then. Oh, and driving. I'm an excellent driver, but some talents are just God given ;)

 

What's the best advice you've ever received?

"It's ok to make mistakes. Learn from them and try not to repeat" -Dad

"Break down the seemingly giant mountain into smaller, scalable hills."-Dad

"Every time you avoid getting into a useless argument with a hater online, an angel gets a snowboard"- Jon Acuff

"We don't have to serve God, we get to serve God. Grace is a gift. Through grace, we get to serve God. For His glory, we serve."- Pete Berlin

 I would love to hear your responses to these questions!