Comment by MMK16
2 days ago
How is this printer idea any different than a simple to do list?
To break down tasks one can simply indent a list.
A to do list gives feedback every time you cross an item of the list.
Sticky notes and printers seem like exaggerated form of a todo list.
I already replied to part of this in another message, which I am reposting here:
It makes the task tangible. You will have a much harder time ignoring your tasks if they are physically on your desk. Tearing up the ticket and putting it in a transparent jar adds an extra layer of satisfaction.
You are right, crossing off an item on your to-do list is a form of feedback. But having it on paper and throwing the paper into a transparent jar makes the feedback even stronger. If you look at the first part of my article, modern video games strengthen feedback loops much more than they used to.
As for list indentation, it may work well for many people, but not for me. I deal with very large and complex lists, with many levels. If I use one single indented list, I end up with a task list that is too long to be pleasant or practical to use.
As far as I understood, the point is the physical feedback from crumbling the paper.