Why the Overhaul?
For years, I relied on a bloated development environment packed with every possible extension and utility. While it worked, it became increasingly clear that this complexity was hindering more than helping. In early 2025, I decided to rebuild my workflow from first principles:
- Fewer Tools: Consolidate 15+ applications into a single core terminal with carefully selected plugins.
- Minimalist UI: Adopt a terminal-centric interface with no graphical distractions.
- First Principles Thinking: Only keep a tool if I could explain exactly how it worked at a system level.
"I don't need more power."
I need to better understand what power I already have at my fingertips.
The New Stack
Here's what makes up my current core workflow, and how it's transformed my productivity:
Hyper-Configured Terminal
Using Alacritty with a custom plugin layer that replaces common IDE functions - everything from code navigation to task management runs in this single interface.
Memory-Driven Workflow
No more auto-completion features. By relying on muscle memory, I've actually improved recall and reduced context-switching penalties between tasks.
Challenges and Solutions
There were several unexpected challenges in this transition:
- Learning Curve: I had to relearn many basic operations manually before using plugins.
- Plugin Management: Took weeks to find the right balance between functionality and simplicity.
- Mental Fatigue: My brain initially rebelled against the lack of automation. Now, it works more efficiently.
Pro tip: Start with a blank slate
The hardest part is not the setup - it's the discipline to keep it clean. I now follow the 90-day rule: if I didn't use a plugin regularly in the first month, it gets removed.
Results After 90 Days
I've seen surprising improvements across several areas:
73%
Faster task completion
-62%
Context switching
89%
Focus retention
This isn't about going back to the 90s - it's about building a system where every component earns its place. My workflow is more reliable, easier to maintain, and I've developed a deeper understanding of exactly how everything works.