I find it amusing that I’ve been applying some principles from computer science and my job to my everyday life. Here are some principles that I’ve been using to optimize my everyday workflows recently:

Redundancy:

• I try to store an extra for everything (toilet paper, toothpaste, laundry detergent etc.) so that I don’t run out completely and have enough time to restock as items run out.

Batching:

• I was visiting the local library several times a week, to drop off or pick up books. I’ve been batching these visits together: when a book arrives, waiting if there are other books in transit, or not dropping off a book immediately if there’s still time left or renewal is possible.
• I was constantly restocking my fridge during the week. Now, I try to plan what I’ll cook, buy most of my groceries online, and only go out once a week for markets that don’t have delivery. For instance, I go to a Turkish market that is far away once a month, and buy items in bulk.

Staging area:

• I didn’t have anywhere to store items that needed to be recycled, so I would take these items with me everyday when I go out. I created a temporary storage area in my kitchen for items that need to be recycled, so that I can throw them away once a week in bulk.

It’s cool how a lot of principles we use in computer science apply to everyday life as well!