Right-pocket and left-pocket things

Ignoring the emergence of male carry-all bag, I carry things in my pants pockets. But for me, there have always been right-pocket things and left-pocket things. By that I mean that 92% of the time (with obvious exceptions for running shorts, swimming trunks, and some tuxedo pants) the things that I have on my person reside very specifically in either my right pocket or my left. It feels natural and to me; it just makes sense.

The Logic

The thinking is that I want to have things that require the most finger dexterity use in my right pocket, easily accessible by my dominant, right hand. The objects receiving interaction from the right hand or receiving interaction from right-pocket objects go in the left pocket.

Here’s my current right pocket configuration: keys, coins, chap stick, and retractable pen.

Current left pocket pocket configuration: iPhone, and assorted paper.

Testing

Occasionally I’ll consider making an addition to my already crowded front pockets. This often happens with new memo books. Typically I will give any new “pocket-carry candidate” a two-day test. If in that time it feels too unnatural, could damage something in that pocket (ex. iPhone screen), or even worse, makes my leg sweat, it fails. Sometimes if the new object proves its utility but fails the 2-day test, it gets a stint in one of my rear pockets before inevitably ending up back in my messenger bag.

End Notes

Now I know that it seems like I’ve put way too much thought into this, and maybe I have. Despite my keen awareness of my pocket contents I sometimes break these rules. I’ll sometimes take objects out of my pockets in anticipation of immediate use, or remove my phone in hypochondriac avoidance of prolonged radiation exposure. But in the end of the day, I know what I am getting when I reach into my pockets. It’s familiar. It’s reliable. It’s (for me at least) good user experience.