We’re thrilled to launch a new series that rounds up all of our must-haves from the quarter for anyone working from home—including apps, podcasts, books, and more! Appen isn’t affiliated with or sponsored by any of the items we recommend; we’re just excited to share them with you.
What We’re Downloading
Drops: Fun Language Learning
Learning a new language can be a huge boost to your professional life and your personal life. There are so many apps out there that offer language learning, but our current favorite is Drops. The app is a standout for its beautiful illustrations of key vocabulary words. The imagery and interactive activities will help you make connections faster and better remember words. The app even helps you learn how to write in new alphabets.
With over 30 languages available, you can download Drops for free (with in-app purchases) on the Apple Store or Google Play.
What We’re Listening to
Beyond the To-Do List Podcast
Podcasts are a fantastic way to learn on the go. This quarter, we’re enjoying listening to Erik Fisher’s “Beyond the To-Do List” podcast. Fisher interviews productivity experts to unlock their secrets to maximizing productivity both personally and professionally. A few of his most recent episodes have included:
- Changing Overthinking into a Superpower to Achieve Your Goals
- The Power and Skill of Listening
- Project Management and Productivity
If you’re interested in giving the podcast a listen, it’s available on all major podcast platforms.
What We’re Reading
How to Stop Procrastinating: A Simple Guide to Mastering Difficult Tasks by S.J. Scott
We all procrastinate from time to time, but for some of us procrastination can really limit progress toward our goals. If you fit this description, this book may be a great resource for you. The author covers simple advice that helps you take action, sharing his own stories on how he beat procrastination and the reasons why we do it. He shares specific rules, daily practices, and other tips on how to plan out your week so procrastination isn’t an option.
What We’re Doing
Desk-friendly Exercises
Fitting in time to exercise when you’re working from home can be a challenge. It’s hard to step away from work when you’re busy with tasks and deadlines. Fortunately, there’s an entire category of exercises targeted just for you; these exercises (or “deskercises”) can all be done from the comfort of your desk. From tricep dips to seated bicycle crunches, you can target each part of your body with desk-friendly exercises.
We found this article’s 25 ideas helpful in covering a range of exercises available to you. Try them out throughout your work day to get your blood flowing, loosen up your muscles, and even improve muscle strength.
What We’re Cooking
Bobotie, a South African Casserole
It’s our pleasure to celebrate recipes from around the world, and for this quarter, we’re highlighting a classic dish from South Africa. Bobotie is a hearty dish made of minced meat baked with an egg-based topping. With comparisons to meatloaf and moussaka, bobotie incorporates a mix of flavors including fruit and curry. It’s a comforting meal, rich and spicy, and the perfect main course for your next family dinner!
Check out the full recipe here. While bobotie is traditionally made with meat, there are now vegetarian and vegan options available to try as well.
Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out! And if you have a favorite recipe from home you think we should highlight, please share with us.
