Eric Su isn’t your average keyboard enthusiast. As the creator behind the productivity-focused Life Tracker system and the @reysu YouTube channel, Eric’s workspace is a reflection of his philosophy: intentional, efficient, and beautifully minimal. And an integral part of that setup? The HHKB.
HHKB: Thanks for joining us today! Can you start by telling us a bit about yourself?
Eric: Sure! I’m Eric Su, 27 years old, based in Los Angeles. I’m an entrepreneur, and before that, I studied computer science and business administration. I used to work full-time as a tech consultant at one of the Big 4 firms.
HHKB: That’s quite the background. What’s your favorite part about being an entrepreneur?
Eric: Definitely the freedom to work on things I care about. But it’s a double-edged sword—it can be tough to stay disciplined when other ideas start looking more interesting.
HHKB: What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs?
Eric: As cliché as it sounds, “never give up” really does work.
HHKB: We agree! So most of your video content and e-commerce store are related to journaling. Can you tell us a bit about how that become something of interest to you?
Eric: I started journaling as a way to remember things in my life. Starting around the age of 20, I felt like time was passing faster and I wanted a way to slow down and actually remember things in my life.
The Life Tracker System came out of that need. In the beginning it was just journaling whenever I had an experience or thought that I wanted to capture – like writing little messages for future me, but over time it evolved into a full framework that combines habit tracking, journaling, and reflection into a single notebook. When I look back on my journals from a few years ago, I find it so satisfying and rewarding to see how far I’ve come and grown.
I shared the system that I use on my YouTube channel and it’s gone viral. Thousands of people have commented and tried out the system, and I get e-mails about it every day. I break it all down on my channel, where I show exactly how I use it and how others can adapt it for their own life.
I get a new notebook every year on my birthday, and now each notebook is like a snapshot of my life at every age. I can see what I cared about the most, what my daily highlights were, and little details from memories I’ve long forgotten.
I’ve filled 7 journals cover to cover now. Journaling in this way keeps me honest about what I’m doing and why. It also helps me notice patterns—like when I’m more productive, when I tend to burn out, and what small changes make a big difference.
It is one of the most impactful things I do, and it's my goal to get more people to start journaling.
HHKB: That’s a fantastic story and it’s so great that you’re inspiring people with your ideas and videos.
HHKB: Let’s talk a little about HHKB. How did you first learn about it?
Eric: I discovered HHKB in high school during a family trip to Japan. I was fascinated by how minimal and compact it was, especially the blank keycaps. I convinced my parents to get me one for my birthday, and it’s been with me ever since. It’s traveled with me through college, study abroad in Japan, and multiple moves.
HHKB: That’s awesome. Is it still your daily driver?
Eric: Yep, the classic blank HHKB has been my main keyboard for about 10 years. I’ve been testing out the HHKB Studio and some split keyboards lately, but the original still holds a special place in my heart.
HHKB: How does the layout work for your needs?
Eric: It took some getting used to—especially the lack of arrow keys—but now I prefer it. It’s great for coding, editing, and typing. Plus, it saves a lot of desk space.
HHKB: What do you think of the HHKB’s design?
Eric: I love it. The symmetry, simplicity, and blank keycaps make it my favorite aesthetically.
HHKB: What other tools do you use in your setup?
Eric: I use a Studio Display with an iPad as a second monitor, MX Masters mouse, AirPods Max, a Shure SM7B mic, and a Sony A7SIII for filming. I also use analog tools like a Leuchtturm1917 journal and a Field Notes pocket notebook.
HHKB: What’s a typical day like for you?
Eric: I usually wake up around 6, work for four hours, hit the gym, then work again in the afternoon until dinner. Evenings are for hobbies or winding down.
HHKB: Were you into mechanical keyboards before HHKB?
Eric: I had a Razer keyboard with Cherry MX Blues. I’ve always seen keyboards as practical tools, so I haven’t explored customizations much.
HHKB: What’s your favorite thing about the HHKB?
Eric: The layout and the blank keycaps. It just looks so clean.
HHKB: Outside of work, what are your hobbies?
Eric: I love journaling and playing music—especially guitar, which I’ve been playing since high school.
HHKB: Where do you see yourself in five years?
Eric: I’d love to see my YouTube channel grow into a well-established brand that creates impactful content and products like the Life Tracker system to help people improve their lives.
HHKB: What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Eric: Learning new things and diving into rabbit holes. Lately, it’s been 3D printing!
HHKB: Last question—what’s your WPM these days?
Eric: I’d say around 150 on average. 😊
Be sure to check out Eric’s links below:
YouTube: @reysu
Instagram: @reysuing
Note: Information and external links are provided for your convenience and for educational purposes only. PFU America, Inc. makes no representations about the contents, features, or specifications on such third-party sites, software, and/or offerings (collectively “Third-Party Offerings”) and shall not be responsible for any loss or damage that may arise from your use of such Third-Party Offerings.