In this episode of Syntax, Scott and Wes talk about soft skills tips — productivity, planning, communication, and more.

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Show Notes

2:20 - Productivity

Make a todo list and prioritize
Get ideas out of your brain
Use a tool like Notion as a second brain
Batch related things together
Recharge when you need it
Have a system and stick to it

16:34 - Finishing projects

Start
Do a little every day
Go all-in for a few days
Clearly identify what needs to be done (Github issues, todo app)

23:30 - Planning tips

I use Mind Node
Whimsical
Write it down when you have an idea
Put everything in a calendar

30:24 - Communication

Be honest and upfront with deadlines
Give yourself padding — many people are overly optimistic
Don’t let people expect communication from you, at all, or at all times
Assume good intentions
Don’t be a jerk to clients or coworkers

40:28 - Skill and career advancement

FDD — fun driven development
Share what you learn
Don’t let other’s progress get you down — there is always someone smarter doing crazier stuff
Solve your own problems
Apply and interview for anything that’s interesting
Track your progress
I want to ___, I wish I could ____, You are lucky that you get to _____
Just start! Seriously. Plan on doing something.

Links

Todoist
Things
Notion
Evernote
Notable
Beginner Javascript
Level 1 Electron
uses.tech
Rework
Jason Freid
David Heinemeier Hanson
It Doesn’t Have To Be Crazy At Work
Mind Node
Whimsical
Javascript30
CodeSandbox
Streaks
Xerf Xpec YouTube Channel

××× SIIIIICK ××× PIIIICKS ×××

Scott: Katsumi Horii Project - Sky Cruisin’ Album
Wes: AmpliFi ALIEN Router

Shameless Plugs

Scott: Animating React with Framer Motion - Sign up for the year and save 25%!
Wes: Beginner Javascript - Use the coupon code ‘Syntax’ for $10 off!

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Soft Skills Tips

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