Another week, another Christopher dishwasher optimization story (IYKYK.)
We store our dishwasher pods under the sink in the kitchen, so they are fairly low to the ground when trying to reach in and grab a new pod.
My husband put the new pack of dishwasher pods on top of the old, empty one.
I, of course, tried to throw out the old, empty container, but was stopped by my husband saying that it was intentional.
Why? “It’s higher up, easier to reach.”
We often think of accessibility as something for a specific group - a formal set of rules, accommodations, or legal requirements. But accessibility is really about lowering the friction between you and the thing you want to do.
In supply chain, that’s why fast-moving inventory is kept closest to the shipping dock and why your most frequently picked parts are stored at waist height. The less you have to bend, twist, or climb, the faster (and safer) you get it done.
The same thinking works in daily life. With AI, apps, and tiny tweaks to your setup, you can make your own life more “accessible” - whether or not you have an official label or need. Why not borrow the best tricks?
Some Tiny Habits from readers - with an even more accessible twist:
Water first, coffee second
Put your water glass next to the coffee machine so you don’t forget.
Accessibility layer: Keep it in the fridge door so it’s ready (physical) or set a recurring phone reminder if you tend to forget.Daily stretch break
Set a timer for mid-afternoon.
Accessibility layer: Keep a yoga strap or towel by your chair (physical) - or pair the stretch with a fun podcast so you actually want to do it (mental health motivation).Weekly “reset” basket
Toss stray items in a basket for quick tidying.
Accessibility layer: Keep the basket in a visible spot so it doesn’t get “out of sight, out of mind” - and limit it to a small container so it never feels overwhelming (mental health).End-of-day “shut down” list
Write the three tasks you’ll start with tomorrow.
Accessibility layer: Use voice-to-text on your phone (physical/low energy) - or brain-dump everything, then circle your top three so decision fatigue doesn’t stop you (mental health).
The best part? This is easy to do with AI. Open up your favourite Generative AI model and enter the habits you’d like to adopt. Then, ask it to make these habits more accessible. Voila! It might just give you another way to look at the solution and make a habit stick.
What’s one tiny accessibility tweak you could add this week?
Monica
