My Favourite Tools, Systems, or Services
I get asked a lot about the tools I use, and which system is best. If you are considering implementing a new system or process in your business, you can book a free 15 minute call with me to see how I could help you out.
The products I have shared below are all ones I currently use in my business, or have used previously and would still recommend. If you’d like to find out more about any of them, and whether they're right for you, I'd be happy to have a chat. I also offer strategy consultations via video call or Voxer - if you'd like to know more, you can book a quick call with me, or drop me an email.
Disclosure - if you purchase any of the below using my links, I may receive a small referral ££. In many cases, though, you will also get a discount or other benefit.
Systems I Swear By
the tech I love & use daily in my business
ToDoist
I’ve used ToDoist for more than 10 years, to manage anything from university work to a home renovation. It’s a great app, especially for mobile, and I would recommend it to almost anyone, for anything!
SmarterQueue
Find Your Flow is all about working in sync with your own rhythms & skills. Few of us are keen (or able!) to write and post content as often as we'd like.
With SmarterQueue, like many schedulers, you can batch content and schedule it for later on. Where SmarterQueue is different, is that you can eventually get it to run on autopilot with evergreen content - saving you time while still promoting your brand.
Get a double-length trial with the link below (30 days instead of 14).
Calendly
I'm a big fan of this scheduler, which offers so much flexibility. Whether you use the free plan or one of the paid ones, you get so much for your investment.
Calendly lets prospective clients book a time to speak with you that suits them and you, without you having to lift a finger - what more could you ask for?
I run strategy sessions on implementing & making the most of your Calendly - if you'd like to book one just drop me a line or book a call!
Otter
As solopreneurs, it can be difficult to keep on top of all your notes and tasks - you wish you had a a PA or a minute taker!
Otter can record your video calls and create a transcript using AI, meaning that you can capture the full discussion without taking endless notes.
Signing up with my link will get you 1 month of Otter Pro Lite (600 mins / month) so you can give Otter a proper test run.
Behind the Scenes
tools & gadgets that make the magic happen
RocketBook
These notebooks are amazing! I have the A4 dotted, the planner style in B5, and a mini size, too. Since buying these, the number of stray post-its and scarps of paper around my office has drastically diminished. I use them to take meeting notes, think ideas through visually, or make daily to do lists.
Frixion Pens
These go with the Rocketbook, but they deserve their own entry because there are so many options! They work in regular notebooks, too, and come in multiple colours and types - rollerballs & highlighters. You can also buy refills, which I love.
Timeular
Time tracking is something I talk a lot about, as it's a really useful way to see where your time goes, and make meaningful changes. If you find that it's hard to remember to use a digital tracker, I recommend Timeular - instead of clicking a button, you turn the 'cube', and the app records the change.
Nexstand K2
This laptop stand is just fab, and I get comments on it every time I work from the local coffee shops.
It's adjustable, pops up or folds down in seconds, weighs next to nothing, and holds my Chromebook really securely. I use it along with a wireless keyboard & mouse for a full ergonomic setup that I can travel with easily - whether that's working from the coffee shop or abroad.
Kensington Wireless Trackball Mouse
I'm a big fan of trackball mice - after working in office jobs where I spent all day with my hand on a mouse, I developed a bit of wrist strain. Trackball mice allow you to rest your arm more naturally, and (if you can) swap your mouse from right to left to give your wrist a rest. When I started FYF and began working more flexibly, I picked up a wireless version for even greater flexibility - I can even pop it on my lap! The one I have isn't available anymore, but this Kensington would be what I'd replace it with.
Logitech Wireless Keyboard
I took a chance on this keyboard (I wasn't sure about the round keys) but actually it's been a great purchase. It fits in my bag easily for travel, and sits easily in front of the laptop stand. The bluetooth connection a great, and it can pair with multiple devices - I've actually used it to type out emails & documents linked to my phone, while on a cramped train.
Mini Post-Its
Sometimes you just need your reminders front & centre. These Post-Its are 80% sticky, making them great for notes around the office. Use them for anything from keeping a goal or affirmation front-of-mind (stick it to your keybooard or monitor) to holding your place in a book or making sure you don't forget that meeting! Most recently, I have used them to jot down hex codes for a day's project, and for reminding myself of this week's goals.
LED Desk Lamp
I actually picked this up before starting FYF, but it's actually turned out to be a great desk lamp - it provides a good amount of light for video calls, and can be set to a bright daylight or a warm reading light - the controls are touch sensitive, and there's even a USB charge function (which I often use to recharge my phone!)
The Practical Stuff
keeping your business compliant + making sure you're supported
PolicyBee
Insurance can be a bit overwhelming, and many small businesses don't fit neatly into the assessment boxes. PolicyBee are friendly & helpful, and will make sure you get the cover you need - and not the bits you don't. Signing up with the link below will get you a £20 credit, too!
FSB
I joined the FSB shortly after starting Find Your Flow Consulting, and found a great community of fellow business owners as well as benefits such as legal support.
QuickBooks
I've found QuickBooks to be the most balanced option for small businesses & solopreneurs - the pricing is competitive, the site itself is pretty easy to navigate, and their helpdesk are fab - they walked me step by step through setting up payroll, and I have no doubt they'll help me when it comes to year end accounts.