In this episode of Syntax, Scott and Wes talk about soft skills tips — productivity, planning, communication, and more. Sentry - Sponsor If you want to know what’s happening with your errors, track them with Sentry. Sentry is open-source error tracking that helps developers monitor and fix crashes in real time. Cut your time on error resolution from five hours to five minutes. It works with any language and integrates with dozens of other services. Syntax listeners can get two months for free by visiting Sentry.io and using the coupon code “tastytreat”. Freshbooks - Sponsor Get a 30 day free trial of Freshbooks at freshbooks.com/syntax and put SYNTAX in the “How did you hear about us?” section. 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! Tweet us your tasty treats! Scott’s Instagram LevelUpTutorials Instagram Wes’ Instagram Wes’ Twitter Wes’ Facebook Scott’s Twitter Make sure to include @SyntaxFM in your tweets