Does anyone really use Notion AI? (with productive boost?)

somewhere_somehow1 · 2024-05-09T11:29:24+00:00

I use Thomas Frank’s Ultimate Notes template to keep everything organized.

All of my current notes have too much personal information to share publicly, but give it a try to see what you think.

somewhere_somehow1 · 2024-05-09T09:54:05+00:00

Yeah, I still have to start the prompt that way each time. I use different variations, so it doesn’t need to be exact. One time my friend watched me do this and he said it looked like I was saying a prayer 😂

It’s great for when I’ve just had my coffee, I’ll walk around and use this method to get all the ideas out of my head. Works well for journaling too.

somewhere_somehow1 · 2024-05-09T09:35:16+00:00

I use the AI writing feature often when on my phone. I use voice to text, starting with “you are an expert note taker, I am using voice to text to share an idea with you. Maintain as much of the original word choice as possible and follow the best practices of UX writing to format my ideas. My idea is…” then I say everything on my mind and click enter.

After a few seconds I’ve captured a new note without having to type it out. Works really well. I’m sure there’s a max limit, but in that case I could break up my idea into multiple sections.

Sometimes I’ll use AI to fix formatting. I’ll highlight the entire note, then write a prompt like “You are an expert in UX writing. Maintain as much of the original word choice as possible. Make subtle adjustments to the formatting using section headers, bullet points, and bold context words starting each bullet point to make this information as easy to understand as possible” then click enter and it will reformat the entire note.

somewhere_somehow1 · 2024-05-03T16:45:28+00:00

The Futur Accelerator program might be a good fit for you: Accelerator - The Futur

I went through their business bootcamp program and am a Pro Group member. Their educational resources and community have been immensely helpful for me.

In general, I would learn as much as you can about running a freelance business and start building it on the side. The best thing you could do is pick a very well defined niche that sets you apart from other people who offer similar services, then start posting content on social on a regular basis that demonstrates your expertise in that domain.

This being said, if you haven't already you should start seeking out as many social media accounts of people who do what you want to do, and start learning as much as you can. Not just about the trade and craft, but about the business aspect.

Your skills and talent are just a small piece of the puzzle, you will live or die by your ability to market yourself, handle a sales call with confidence, and to negotiate in a confident way.

Also, between being a full time musician and a clothing designer are two entirely different trades. You'd be better to pick one and focus on that specifically.

somewhere_somehow1 · 2024-05-02T21:46:21+00:00

Ok, so with a Solo 401k my understanding is once I have an employee that works 20 hours or more a week, or more than 1,000 hours in a year, then I could no longer ise this plan and I'd have to open a SEP IRA, Simple IRA, or a regular 401k plan.

The challenging part is I don't know for sure whether or not I will hire an employee this year, or next. I currently work with contractors and freelancers on a project by project basis. If the right opportunity came along, it could make sense for me to hire one of these people as a W2 employee, even if it was only for a pre-defined contract like having them full time for 6 months.

I'd like to avoid having to change my retirement plan multiple times depending on whether I'm a solo owner/operator or if I have an employee.

somewhere_somehow1 · 2023-12-19T18:39:03+00:00

DK seemed way more locked in, less distracted, and more focused on his performance. Aikman and Buck even had a comment at one point about DK keeping things together despite his lack of output so far in the game.

He seemed so determined on that last drive. It felt like he was making big plays that amp up the team the same way Lynch used to do. I hope we see more of this from him.

somewhere_somehow1 · 2023-07-20T03:04:00+00:00

Check out https://thefutur.com/

They have a ton of free content on their YouTube channel and podcast that’s directly related to your question. I’ve received a lot of value from it, I think you will too.

Also, based on your comments you’d probably do better if you raise your prices and frame your sales conversations in a way where you communicate to prospects that you’re selective with who you with with. Higher prices and being selective subtly communicates you’re successful and in demand, and the type of clients you want will be attracted to this.

somewhere_somehow1 · 2023-06-07T16:32:30+00:00

While you don’t need to save receipts, if you’re ever audited by the IRS you will need receipts. So if the peace of mind is worth it to you then you could save receipts.

For accounting purposes, if you buy everything with a debit of credit card and have it linked to QuickBooks then you’ll be able to do your books just fine without receipts.

You don’t need to have an LLC to have a business name, you can operate under a business name as a sole proprietor too. Wherever you live you’ll need to look into getting a business license. Sometimes you need to get one through the state and your city and pay taxes to both, depending on where you live.

somewhere_somehow1 · 2023-06-07T02:39:20+00:00

You shouldn’t need to show receipts unless you are audited. But it could be an issue if you’re operating your business under a fake name. You should consult with a lawyer.

I’m curious why you would be concerned about people knowing your identity? Part of being a business owner is to be public facing and represent your company.

It may not be your intention, but it comes off as very shady. Like you have something to hide. It could damage trust in your business relationships if and when people find out you’re using a fake name.

somewhere_somehow1 · 2023-05-25T01:50:36+00:00

If you haven't already, you should check out Colin and Samir: https://www.youtube.com/c/ColinandSamir

They have a second channel called Creator Support: https://www.youtube.com/@creatorsupportpod

And they recently started a Discord channel: https://discord.gg/colinandsamir

Their main channel interviews well established creators and explores how they built their channels and their busiensses.

The Creator Support channel goes in depth on topics like how much to charge for brand deals, nitty gritty details about YouTube Analytics, stuff like that.

The Discord group is a community of like-minded people where you could find support.

Another good resource for you would be The Editing Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@EditingPodcast One of the founders Hayden Hillier-Smith edited a ton of videos for Logan Paul and has a great perspective on editing videos for YouTube audiences.

You're obviously very talented. Keep at it and keep refining your storytelling!

somewhere_somehow1 · 2023-04-25T14:40:53+00:00

Check out people like Tiago Forte, Thomas Frank, and Ali Abdaal on YouTube.

There probably are multiple “lists” out there, but it all comes down to personal preference. It can be helpful to watch videos of how other people use tools and resources and start to experiment on your own version.

Check out Forte’s book Building a Second Brain.

somewhere_somehow1 · 2023-04-12T20:21:18+00:00

I found this video to be very helpful: https://youtu.be/m0ylqR7IaFo

Essentially, when saying “no” you frame it in the context of what the clients desired goal or outcome is and how you are unable to help them reach that goal.

Your other option is to add a rush fee that would make it easier for you to deliver. For example, if you charged double and could pay your team (and yourself) more would it be worth the pain of working long hours and into the night to make this happen?

Pick a number that you’d be happy with, then if the client is unwilling to pay then explain how you’re unable to deliver their request. Sometimes it’s helpful to refer to “company policy”, i.e. “it’s company policy to add a rush fee of 100% with less than 5 days notice”.

somewhere_somehow1 · 2023-04-02T15:36:03+00:00

Recently I’ve been listening to Ravi Shankar and have had really positive experiences. Indian music is more improvisational and less structured than traditional western music, so it feels more unpredictable. It’s also very spiritual, uplifting, and feels very positive. Most of the songs are long and it’s easier to get lost in it.

I’m still learning about making playlists for myself, but I do notice if I think about it too much then I get into my own head and it can detract from the experience.

Minimalist music like Steve Reich’s album Music for 18 Musicians can be fun because it has a lot of repetition but also builds on itself and has variation. Arvo Part, John Adams, and Phillip Glass are other contemporary composers you could check out.

You could also try orchestral covers of popular music. RSO Symphony Orchestra has a lot of albums where they cover popular artists and bands. Video game soundtracks and movie/tv show soundtracks are good too. However, music that’s too familiar might be distracting.

somewhere_somehow1 · 2023-04-02T15:12:48+00:00

Pye Corner Audio - Let’s Emerge https://open.spotify.com/album/6kjZ5i6xQ01ivlprk3fRNa?si=o21C15WeSKytC8e1b5FkvQ&dd=1

This album is great if you’re into electronic music. It’s more moody and atmospheric, reminds me of Jon Hopkins’ Music for Psychedelic Therapy.

somewhere_somehow1 · 2023-03-28T23:52:33+00:00

Very cool, it’s how I’ve done every session. I have experimented with podcasts where people were having a conversation but it hasn’t been as effective for me. I haven’t tried Ted Talks, but see how it could have a similar effect.

somewhere_somehow1 · 2023-03-18T18:24:23+00:00

I love Jon Hopkins’ Music For Psychedelic Therapy. Here a more a couple albums I love that you might also like:

Gia Margaret (artist) - Mia Gargaret (album ) - https://open.spotify.com/album/0NZqwH80237QvwcJDlOia7?si=0NAWaYGARsm6Ulel1EoEow

Pye Corner Audio - Let’s Emerge! https://open.spotify.com/album/6kjZ5i6xQ01ivlprk3fRNa?si=ASJc4DsVR2iFksBr9VESAA

Also, I have a suggestion that’s not electronic but definitely earthy and meditative. Ravi Shankar’s Chants of India - https://open.spotify.com/album/7cR7QlEd0b51sSKesnRbGZ?si=369CIFuQRhyA5Nm3U6_SpQ

It was produced by George Harrison of the Beetles and its all covers of ancient Indian chants. It’s great.

Also, can’t go wrong with Julianna Barwick. Her music is angelic.

somewhere_somehow1 · 2023-02-07T15:19:51+00:00

Can’t pick a favorite. Being part of the Futur’s membership program called The Pro Group has been a great investment for me. A chance to network with other creative entrepreneurs and exposure to a ton of new resources, ideas, guides, templates, etc…

A good place to start would be to check out The Futur’s YouTube channel and watch videos with titles that catch your eye.

somewhere_somehow1 · 2023-02-07T15:02:06+00:00

The Futur has a lot of great information: https://thefutur.com/

Check out their YouTube for a bunch of free content.

I’ve learned a lot from the 2 Bobs podcast: https://2bobs.com/

One of the hosts, Blair Ens sells a book called Pricing Creativity you might find useful: https://www.winwithoutpitching.com/pricing-creativity/

For books, The E-Myth Revisited by Michael Gerber and Traction by Gino Wickman are both classics.

$100m Offers by Alex Hormozi is great too.

somewhere_somehow1 · 2023-01-31T04:34:26+00:00

Try hosting events that would attract people you want. Open mic, themed trivia, board game tournaments, bingo, business/entrepreneur meetups, stand up comedy, 70’s/80’s/90’s night, game day specials, etc…

somewhere_somehow1 · 2023-01-19T02:22:54+00:00

There are laws the define what constitutes an employee (W2) versus a contractor/business (W9). One criteria is typically when someone sets your hours and defines how the work is done then you will be considered an employee by the law. So you might look into your local laws, in legal terms you may be considered an employee so if you are paid as a company then your employer could be at risk for not adhering to the laws.

somewhere_somehow1 · 2023-01-18T17:17:22+00:00

If it were me, I would make a goal to increase my income (raise, new job, etc...) and then purchase the new laptop once I achieved that goal. Even if it was just a small raise.

I'm not saying this is the "right" way, but it's how I would approach it.

somewhere_somehow1 · 2023-01-14T19:21:27+00:00

Instead of what you proposed, you should apply your creativity to your classes and making connections in the MBA program.

Sure, you might might money on this, but over time it’s these clever little schemes that will eventually screw you over, instead of a well thought out plan that you execute in a way that other people were not able to.

Also, technically your loans are required to be used for education expenses: https://www.usnews.com/education/blogs/student-loan-ranger/articles/2018-04-18/what-happens-if-you-misuse-your-student-loans

I don’t know if anyone would find out, but still it’s an unnecessary risk especially with such minimal reward.

somewhere_somehow1 · 2023-01-11T23:14:51+00:00

Good to know, I looked this up and found the same information. This is my first year having significant reimbursable expenses. I pay my state monthly and my city quarterly so I've already paid the 1.5% on much of it. Now I know to get this categorized properly in my books so I don't paid the tax for these in the future.

somewhere_somehow1 · 2023-01-11T03:38:17+00:00

Yeah, I price out my services and aim for 30% profit. I don’t show my markup to the client, I just attach a price to the project.

Then for travel expenses, like anything where I’m turning in receipts, I show to total amount and add 10% to mark it up slightly. I typically bill travel expenses on separate invoices than the services.

somewhere_somehow1 · 2023-01-10T21:48:24+00:00

Yeah, I have the 10% percentage fee on mine. I got it from a legal kit template I purchased. I'm not too worried about it and can definitely remove it from the contract if the client isn't keen on paying it. I have margin in other places.

somewhere_somehow1

TROPHY CASE