I offer the following:
1. The Dvorak Keyboard, (or Howdja Like to Learn to Type All Over Again?)
I once knew about the Dvorak Keyboard, but I forgot about it so completely that it's like I'm discovering this for the first time. Old mechanical typewriters used the QWERTY keyboard to prevent jam-ups of the keys. I learned to type on a giant Royal Manual in 7th grade, and I used my Smith Corona Classic 12 all through high school and college, and even through most of Bill's college, though in his senior year when I faced four simultaneous papers of his, waiting to be typed, I was seduced by an electronic typewriter that could run on a power cord or even batteries (about 12 D-cells, as I recall--not very economical). I was a very fast typist, even on a manual; I could really tangle those keys when I got on a roll.
But August Dvorak decided there had to be a faster and easier way than QWERTY, and in 1936, he invented the keyboard that bears his name. To find out more of its Right-Thing-at-the-Wrong-Time tortured history, and why the Dvorak is so much better for the computer age, read here: http://www.dvorak-keyboard.com/
This is the Dvorak layout--it looks very strange, doesn't it?
Strange or not, if you're a 50 wpm typist on a QWERTY, studies show you can become a 100 wpm keyboarder with Dvorak. That's 100% improvement, and all I'd have to do is reprogram my brain to ignore 40 years of training and relearn my typing skills! Wow, this could be as challenging (or more) as learning Spanish!As an extra-added bonus, most high-end keyboards include a dual-function to accommodate both QWERTY & Dvorak layouts simultaneously:
And sitting on your desk, being all ergonomic, reducing the chance of repetitive stress injuries, and looking all high-tech is this:
I want one, in the worst way. I don't know why, but I want it right now! Just think of the possibilities for new skills, faster typing, and incredible frustration! Re-grooving my synapses could be just what I need right now. Please send me this immediately.2. The No-Complaining Bracelet
You have probably heard of this, but like I said, I was busy last year. I missed this completely, probably because I was complaining about my sad state of affairs at the time.
http://www.columbiatribune.com/2007/Apr/20070429News008.asp
More than 5 MILLION of these things have been sent out free of charge and Rev. Bowen's book is just flying off the shelves. I've got to be impressed by the principle of "Gratitude Without the Attitude," since I really do believe in counting the blessings, rather than railing at the fates (though you'll notice I give both equal time, since complaining almost always makes better copy than waxing ecstatic). Okay, maybe not so equal time. I'm trying.
I was especially interested in the FAQ on the church's website, notably the section on "How Do I Know If I'm Complaining?" [insert a big "DUH" here]. Rev. Bowen's response:
To "Complain" is defined as "to express pain, grief, or discontent." Surely, it makes sense to express pain, grief or discontent occasionally but most people do so constantly. In so doing, they are talking and thinking about what they do not want in their life and, thereby, attracting more pain, grief and discontent. Instead, think and talk about what you are grateful for. Talk about what you DO want and not what you DON'T want.
Blogger Princess Peg summarizes for the rest of us:
To Complain IS:
- To be a big, fat baby whiner
- Causing others grief due to one's own self-centeredness
- "Discussing" others' faults - with distinct relish
- To express dismay and disillusionment at the complete dysfunction of the world around oneself
I'm pretty sure I don't want one of these bracelets (there's that silicone-"ick"-thing-around-the-wrist-action), but I admire the sentiment. Please do not send me one. I'll work on the attitude, I promise.
So there I have my plan of action for self-improvement. If I can learn to type Dvorak at 100 wpm and shut up already with the kvetching, I think I will be just about perfect.
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