I’m Michael Gorbatenko and This is How I Work
- Location: Duluth, MN
- Current Gig: Marketing Analytics Student at UMD (Go Dogs!)
- One word that describes how you work: Purposefully

What apps/software/tools can’t you live without? Why?
Although I am reluctant to admit it, I am a huge fan of most social media platforms. My very favorites are Twitter, and Reddit, and its rare that I go a day without using one or the other. I believe twitter pushes it’s users to engage in creative communication by keeping posts short and quick interactions. Sometimes this isn’t for the best, but it has always intrigued me. Reddit is a great place to browse if you want to learn new things, but it is also a place filled with fiction and absurdity.
What’s your best time-saving shortcut/life hack?
My favorite and most recently learned life hack is making my coffee before I go to bed the night before. I make my coffee, ice it, and grab it from the fridge on my way out in the morning. It saves time in the morning, and who doesn’t like iced coffee?
What everyday thing are you better at than everyone else? What’s your secret?
No joke, I am amazing at sleeping. Very rarely do I stay up late tossing and turning. When I lay down, I’m out!
What do you listen to while you work?
My favorite music to listen to while I work is softer alternative rock like the group beach house. Or I listen to not so crazy EDM music like rufus du sol. It thoroughly helps me stay focused and relaxed.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
The most important piece of advice I have ever received I try and use on a daily basis. It is very simple: If it takes less than 5 minutes, just do it right away. This works really well to combat procrastination and it keeps me organized. It especially works well with something that you’re dreading! You can get it out of the way without having that pile of dirty laundry looming over your head.
Where do you find inspiration and new ideas?
We are often pushed for new ideas and “inspiration” in a university setting. I can’t say that this is an area that doesn’t inspire me or a place where I am unable to create. That being said, sometimes it feels too structured. I find that my head is flooded with ideas when I am feeling in touch with nature. It doesn’t need to be deep in the back-country, just an area where nature is undeniably present.
What’s your favorite quote?
“Peace is the result of retraining your mind to process life as it is, rather than as you think it should be.” — Wayne W. Dyer
