Fitbit + Google Home = managing my stress (barely)

Jan 11 min read

Got a Fitbit last year specifically to track stress levels (heart rate variability). Sounds stupid but data helps me see when I'm running on empty.

Also set up automated Google Home reminders at 5:45pm every day: "Leave work in 15 mins. Commute starts now." Sounds dumb but it actually helps me close the laptop instead of just... staying.

Small things but they've actually reduced my anxiety about whether I'm doing enough at work AND at home. Anyone else use tech to manage the work-life balance?

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Comments(5)

CCarl S.Regular2h ago

How accurate is the stress tracking on Fitbit though? I've heard some people say it's basically meaningless but I'm curious if you've found it actually useful for spotting patterns.

CChris P.Regular17h ago

The Google Home reminder is actually genius though. Most of us just stay until 6:30pm out of inertia. Having an actual alert probably makes a real difference in your headspace.

CCarl L.Regularjust now

Okay I'm actually going to try the Google Home thing. Do you have it set to a specific volume or did you mess with the tone? Want it noticeable but not jarring.

OOliver Q.Regular21h ago

Not stupid at all. Using data to understand your own stress patterns is exactly what this stuff is for. The reminder to leave at 5:45 is way smarter than most productivity hacks I've seen. Does the Fitbit actually show you trends over time or is it mostly just daily noise?

PPat H.New Dad22h ago

This is lowkey the most dad thing I've ever read and I mean that as a compliment. Using your tech stack to literally hack your own brain. The 5:45 reminder is peak 'leaving work on time' energy.