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Automattic Blog Remote Work Tech

Wishing Matt Mullenweg: A Grateful Birthday Tribute from a Happiness Engineer

It’s been a while since I published anything new, so let’s change that. Today is Matt Mullenweg’s birthday, the visionary co-founder of WordPress and founder of Automattic. Matt has been a driving force in reshaping the digital landscape. His commitment to open-source solutions has not only transformed the way we build websites but has also created a global community where creativity and collaboration thrive. What does he want for his birthday? Well, you’re looking at it: he wants the world to keep the blogs blogging!

As a Happiness Engineer at Automattic, I find myself deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute to Matt’s vision. His leadership has not only provided a platform for users worldwide but has also created a workplace that values innovation, collaboration, and employee well-being. On this special occasion of his birthday, I want to express my gratitude for the meaningful work I get to do every day.

The open-source nature of WordPress, championed by Matt, has democratized publishing, enabling millions to express themselves online effortlessly. It’s more than just a content management system; it’s a testament to the power of shared knowledge and community-driven development. Matt’s dedication to an open web has paved the way for a digital landscape that prioritizes accessibility and inclusivity.

As we celebrate Matt’s birthday, it’s a moment to acknowledge not only the past achievements but also to look towards the future. Matt’s innovative spirit has continually pushed boundaries, and there’s a sense of excitement about what lies ahead. The open-source ethos that he embodies suggests a future where digital spaces continue to evolve, becoming more user-friendly, collaborative, and empowering. Here’s to Matt Mullenweg, his remarkable journey, and the endless possibilities his vision unfolds. Happy Birthday, Matt! 🎉

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Automattic Blog Product Review Remote Work Tech

New keyboard – Keychron K2

This just arrived today.

As much time as I spend using one, I’ve been looking to move into the world of mechanical keyboards for a while now. As a mac user with a Spanish ISO keyboard layout, after a fair amount of research, the above option seemed to be the best for me. It’s been here for 15 min and I’m already happy with it. That clickity-clackity sound is back. ❤

I decided to do a quick speed test to see how it went. I’m still not used to all the keys and they didn’t actually have a Spanish ISO layout. Instead, I bought a Nordic ISO layout as it was the closest I could find. I’m going on pure memory for most the character keys until I buy the Spanish key-caps. Here are the initial speed test results:

I’ll have to do this test again in a month or so to see how much I can improve once I get used to it!

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Automattic Blog Remote Work

What does it take to be a Happiness Engineer?

It has been officially more than two years since I started my trial to be a Happiness Engineer for Automattic. I can honestly say that it was one of the most challenging, and rewarding journeys I have ever embarked on. I’m very pleased with how everything has turned out, and still, after two years, look forward to going to work and helping our users every day!

The motivation for this post is we’re hiring! If you or anybody you know is interested, my advice is to apply! If you’re curios more about what the job entails, my colleague Sandy wrote a great description on his blog. I would highly recommend checking it out!

D0n’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or doubts!

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Africa Automattic Blog

10 min of Yoga

Have you found yourself sitting at home in front of the computer more than usual during this pandemic? I would image for most people, including myself, the answer is unfortunately yes. That being said, I’ve got a nice 10 min yoga session designed for people who’ve been doing too much sitting.

The entire session took just over 10 min, but it’s been time-lapsed to one minute and six seconds for your viewing pleasure. Check it out!

Music credit goes to Ali Farka Touré, with Cinquante Six. Here’s the full track, if you like what you hear.

BIG props to my wonderful partner who has been working with me, our frisbee team, and countless other people keeping us motivated and active during these trying times. You’re the best!

Stay healthy, this will all be over soon. Let’s learn something from this, and develop healthier habits at home, and incorporate them into our lives once we return to normalcy.

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Automattic Remote Work

Ways to Optimize Your Business Website

We all know we are living in trying times currently. My heart goes out to anybody and everybody who, for whatever reason, is unable to work currently. Some of the hardest hit individuals are small businesses. We try to buy local as much as possible, but currently, that isn’t exactly possible.

I don’t know if this can help anyone, but two of my colleagues presented a one-hour online workshop called Optimize Your Business Website: Secrets from Web Design Pros. If you’re looking to create a Business website, I would highly recommend checking it out!

As some of you already know, I have recently switched roles with Automattic, moving from WordPress.com to the WooCommerce division. That means I am working directly with eCommerce sites. If anybody is looking for any help getting their small business site up and running, let me know, and I’ll do what I can! I say that not as an official work capacity, and not looking to sell any services, just trying to help someone in need.

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Automattic Basque Country Blog Europe Remote Work

Working on Christmas Eve, could be worse!

When you chose to work on Christmas Eve, it could be worse! Thanks to being a remote worker, and some nice Christmas weather, this was my work spot for a few hours.

Photo taken at the Playa de Azkorri, Basque Country, Spain. Also posted to Automattic’s Office Today blog, which inspired me to post here as well.

Alright, back to work!

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Automattic Blog Remote Work

Podcast: Inside the Grand Meetup

Have you ever wondered what happens inside the Grand Meetup?

What is a Grand Meetup, or better known as, the GM?

The GM, is the one time a year the company I work for comes together, in person. We’re a distributed company, meaning we all work from home, from all over the world.

This is a deep dive into what the GM is all about, with staff interviews and insights.

You can see my Flash Talk from last year’s GM here, and read more about the event on the Distributed Podcast’s official website.

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Automattic Blog

My Tumblr Inspiration

In case you hadn’t heard, my company Automattic bought Tumblr. Inspiration to revive an old Tumblr account I had.