Top Three Things

If you check https://topthreethings.com now, there is a product that works!

I won't call it "MVP" even if functionality-wise it does do the minimum viable for me: I use it to jot down my three things of the day and get an inspirational reward-hint, and since I'm logged-in when I do, it syncs cross-device! So it's replaced my notebook already. We're going digital!

But it's not really a product yet. It's a tool that doesn't quite sell why you'd want to use it, or guide you through how it's supposed to work!

I'd love some feedback, as I only have my gut to guide me on what to do next... I have thoughts, but some "real people needs" can really affect the roadmap at this point 😁

For the tech side of things, I am going with a React Next.js frontend deployed with Zeit Now, which consumes a GraphQL backend deployed to Heroku.

I've had a lot of experience with GraphQL at this point, but this is the first time I'm using Hasura to magically spin up the server based on my Postgres schema: it's a learning curve to set up the auth parts, but it's really great!

I've been using the pomodoro technique to keep myself focused and taking regular breaks even when I'm too excited with a project for a couple years... I'm a big believer it works!

I was reminded of https://www.forestapp.cc/ by a friend and I was using it as my pomodoro timer for the day. Not as simple as just a timer, but it's nice to be rewarded with a lovely tree when you maintain your focus!

So what if there were a similar app for the other "productivity" pro-tip I often follow: When I actually want to get things done, I wake up and write down my three key goals to achieve for the day.

What if there was a simple, slick app for that? Fire it up, set three things, maybe set what your reward would be, and then get it if you tick off all three on the day!

Maybe the rewards would be cute pets! You select them in their final form, but can only see their "egg" versions until you get things done.

But that's getting ahead of myself! I tried to come up with names, and "Three Things" seemed nice and clear. The domain wasn't available though, so I snatched https://topthreethings.com/

There's nothing there, not even a redirect! But I think I know what my three things tomorrow are gonna be...