Before Breakfast Second Cup: Better tools make tasks more fun
Mar 29, 2026
A quick case for upgrading everyday tools to make routine tasks more enjoyable. Examples range from nicer notebooks and pens to better pans and vacuums. Practical tips include auditing frequently used items and using reviews to find reliable replacements. Small improvements can save time and reduce resentment about chores.
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Upgrade Tools You Use Every Day
- Upgrade frequently used tools to make recurring tasks more enjoyable.
- Laura Vanderkam uses nicer notebooks and a well-reviewed frying pan so note-taking and cooking feel like small treats.
Making Do Is Virtuous But Costly Over Time
- Making do is often virtuous but leaves room for friction when an item is a workhorse.
- Replacing a repeatedly annoying item (like a poor vacuum or dull knife) can reduce daily resentment and save time.
Audit Your Week For High-Impact Replacements
- Audit daily and weekly routines to identify frequently used tools worth upgrading.
- Laura lists common candidates: knives, pans, scissors, dish brushes, laptop, photo software, vacuum, and laundry machines.