What’s on My Now Page

Over on my main site, there’s a page called Now. It’s a simple idea. Instead of an “About Me” page that tells you what I’ve done, a Now page tells you what I’m up to these days.

It’s like the answer you’d give if you ran into somebody at the grocery store and they asked, “So, what are you up to?” Except you don’t have to stand in the cereal aisle to hear it. 😂

Why bother with a Now page?

I added one when I built out rickduncan.net and this blog. Lots of folks keep one. It’s not a blog post, and it’s not a resume. It’s just a snapshot.

I liked it for a couple of reasons.

First, it keeps me honest. If I write down what I’m working on, I’d better be working on it. Same idea as telling the internet I’m trying to lose weight.

Second, it’s a good check on where my time goes. Every time I update it, I have to ask myself what actually matters right now. That’s a healthy question at any age, and it gets more important the further past sixty you get.

Lastly, it’s a daily reminder of where I am and where I’m going — whether that’s tech, my health, or just life. In some way it gives me direction.

What it says right now

Here’s what’s on the page as of this writing.

As of this writing, the page says I’m focused on learning AI, working with Grok Bot, expanding my web presence, expanding my smart home, and exercise and weight loss. Still true. I’ve got a monthly reminder set so I don’t let it go stale.

That said, a Now page isn’t worth much if it never changes. Things come and go. Some projects finish. Some fizzle out. Things will change and likely sooner rather than later.

Past sixty and still busy

People sometimes think that once you hit a certain age, life slows down to a rocking chair and the evening news. Not in my house. Between the website, the blog, the smart home, the bots, the antique booth, the walking, and the Vols, I stay plenty busy. 🍊🏈

The Now page is a nice reminder of that. It’s proof, mostly to myself, that I’m still learning and still building things.

Make one of your own

If you’ve got a website, I’d recommend giving it a try. It doesn’t have to be fancy. A few lines will do. Update it every month or two, or whenever life changes.

And if you don’t have a website, just try answering the question for yourself: what are you up to right now? You might be surprised by the answer.

Need ideas? Check out these Now pages from people all over the world. You’re sure to find some awesome and unique ideas there.

— Rick