5 Apps I Use Everyday As A Teacher and CEO

Welcome back, my friend! Today, we’re diving into the tools, philosophies, and personal reflections that are reshaping how we approach teaching and life itself. Whether you’re an educator or someone trying to make life a bit easier and more joyful, this blog is for you. Inspired by my recent podcast episode, I’ll share some transformative insights about living intentionally, the apps I rely on, and how we can align our time and energy with our values.

Behind the Scenes: Living in Transition

Do you ever feel stuck in the space between who you are and who you want to become? That’s been a big theme for me lately. I’ve been reflecting on societal pressures, particularly as a woman navigating middle age. We’re expected to maintain the energy of our 20s while exhibiting the wisdom and leadership of our 30s or beyond—a juggling act that can leave anyone feeling overwhelmed.

The past two years have amplified these pressures. Life has demanded constant pivots, and our brains are overloaded trying to adapt to a rapidly changing world. Yet, this period has also opened doors for questioning everything: how we see ourselves, how we spend our time, and how we balance personal growth with societal expectations.

5 Essential Apps That Simplify My Life

Here’s a breakdown of the tools I use every day to streamline my personal and professional life, leaving more room for what truly matters:

1. Google Calendar
   My lifeline! I organize everything with separate calendars for personal events, family commitments, social activities, and work schedules. For example, I track my cycle, add book club meetings, and even input local events I might want to attend. For work, I manage meetings, content schedules, and planning periods. Google Calendar’s flexibility makes it a must-have for anyone juggling multiple roles.

2. Smart Speaker Shopping Lists
   Ever get home from the grocery store and realize you forgot something? Same here—until I started using my smart speaker to add items to a running shopping list. Paired with my grocery store app, it ensures I never miss pantry staples or my kids’ favorite snacks.

3. Voxer
   This walkie-talkie app has revolutionized how I stay connected with friends, especially during busy periods. It’s perfect for sending voice messages without the need for real-time conversations. Whether it’s a quick check-in or a 15-minute chat, Voxer makes maintaining relationships easier.

4. Google Forms
   For work, Google Forms is a game-changer. I use it for tracking data like learner progress or IEP notes. A tip: save forms directly to your phone’s home screen for quick access, keeping everything organized and secure.

5. Zapier
   Automation is key to reclaiming time. Zapier connects different apps and automates repetitive tasks. For instance, I use it to send reminders for IEP meetings or to trigger backend processes for work-related tasks. It’s like having a personal assistant!

Aligning Time with Values

A recurring theme in my journey is aligning how I spend my time with what truly matters. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when your actions don’t reflect your priorities. For me, that means questioning societal expectations, redefining success, and letting go of the hustle mentality.

Tony Robbins famously said, “The quality of your life is determined by the quality of questions you ask.” Instead of asking why life feels hard or overwhelming, I now ask:

• How can this be easier and more fun?
• How can I make a significant impact while enjoying the process?

These questions have helped me elevate my approach to both teaching and living.

Final Thoughts

Life is an ongoing balancing act, especially for educators and caregivers. By leveraging the right tools, asking better questions, and embracing intentionality, we can create a life that feels both meaningful and manageable.

I hope you found these insights helpful. If you want more tips on aligning your time with your values, check out Episode 59 and Episode 65 of my podcast. Remember, life is about progress, not perfection. Let’s make it easier—and more fun—together.

Useful Resources:

• Explore the IOMOS Priority List to stay ahead in your O&M practice.
• Join the Clarity Workshop for in-depth training and actionable strategies.
• Register for the TVI Symposium  to connect with fellow educators and learn from experts in the field.