Thread by @TfTHacker

1/14 SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE OVERLOAD

I have to say, in the last few years, I have subscribed to many more tools and services that ever before.

While all the fees related to subscriptions are justifiable, I have to admit they really add up with time.

Let us talk about this. #TfT

2/14 First, I believe in supporting companies & content creators.

Its not fair to expect them to create, advance & maintain stuff we use every day & to do so for free.

Nothing is really free. While it might be free to use, it costs someone & without support, it can't last.

3/14 This is especially true for startups like @obsdmd, @logseq, @rem_note, etc. While they all have free offerings, if we have the means to support them, we should.

Adding content creators to this list @rjnestor, @OneStuttering, @cortexfutura, @zsviczian @tracyplaces, etc

4/14 Having said that, as subscription models slowly becomes the standard, it is getting more expensive every year. In fact, in 2022 my subscription fees are very high.

I am sure I am not alone, how do you deal with the growing costs?

Let me tell you what I decided for myself.

5/14 BUDGET

As always, its important to have a budget. A budget sets limits & boundaries.

While its not easy to restrict spending, when you see the budget amount, and how much it adds up too, well... its a great motivator to enhance ones' self-control.

6/14 GOALS & PRIORITIES

Also, define clearly for yourself what is important, what is less important, what is not needed.

Simple fact of life: without clear definitions, we are often guided by the never ending gusts of chance & emotion.

It's easy to spend, hard to eearn.

7/14 TOOLS FOR THOUGHT

The TfT space is new, and these startups and content creators need our support (and love).

So in my budget, the companies who I think have the most potential and need the most love also get some of my hard earned money.

8/14 KEEP GOOD RECORDS

It is easy to forget how much things cost after using services for a few years. I keep a list of my subscriptions in one place with name, renewal date and cost.

I look at this list during my GTD monthly review and scrutinize if the money is well spent.

9/14 DEALS, DISCOUNTS

I often do most of my subscribing at the end of the year when many companies offer discounts. I support them, but keep money in the pot for others.

10/14 LIFETIME purchases

Some offer life-time purchases which are more expensive up front, but long-term can save.

For example, I recently purchased @StrongboxSafe for life. I will use this app for a decade at least, so it will pay for itself.

@rem_note also has such a plan.

11/14 REFERRAL PROGRAMS

Some companies offer referral bonuses. We might feel we are doing something wrong to recommend a product if we get something in return, BUT if it's a product you love, use and a company you believe in, you are actually doing something good for others.

12/14 -- 1440 MINUTES IN A DAY

I constantly remind myself I can't do everything, there are only so many minutes in a day.

Its easy to subscribe to a service that will be useful, but if you don't have the time to learn and start using it, then you waste money and your nerves.

13/14 In conclusion, let us support our Tools for Thought creators, not just in word, but financially & in a balanced and measured way.

What suggestions do yo have to offer regarding the ever growing subscription fees?

14/14 P.S. to all you TfT tool makers and content creators, please let me know when you have special campaigns and discounts. I'll happily promote your service and discount if I see it offers value.