Focus on your system newsletter - Issue 04

Hello everyone,

Here's my latest newsletter to help with your systems.

App I am using:

As an avid ChatGPT user, I was thrilled to discover the release of an official ChatGPT app for Mac. Previously, I navigated through numerous unofficial apps and even tried connecting via the API using Python. The introduction of a native desktop application greatly simplifies access, especially since I can dock it on the sidebar while using applications like Obsidian for enhanced productivity.

The official ChatGPT app excels in its seamless integration and user-focused design. Unlike its predecessors, this app offers a more stable and integrated experience, with features like direct screenshot uploads enhancing its utility.

The app proved invaluable during a project where I needed to brainstorm ideas quickly. Using ChatGPT, I could instantly generate and iterate on ideas, significantly speeding up the creative process and enhancing my productivity.

Regular use of the app has streamlined my workflow, particularly in summarising extensive articles and assisting with Python coding. It acts as a virtual assistant, ready to tackle complex tasks alongside me.

Currently, the app lacks deep integration with other software. I’ve managed this by using parallel running apps and occasionally switching between them to transfer information manually.

The ChatGPT app is a staple in my daily routine. It’s always open on my sidebar during work hours, ready to assist with tasks ranging from quick lookups to detailed technical help in coding.

I anticipate further integration with broader operating systems and applications, enhancing its utility. Ideally, future versions would include more advanced customisation options to tailor its functions more closely to user preferences and work habits.

Book I am reading:

I was initially drawn to Bill Walsh’s book, The Score Takes Care of Itself, due to my personal belief that in life, like in careers, we often measure success through quantifiable outcomes like salaries. Although I recognise this might not be the ideal philosophy, it has been a practical measure for my career progression. This book not only met but also expanded my expectations by illustrating that the focus should be on the process rather than the outcome.

A quote that particularly struck me was, “When you focus on the score, you’re focusing on results that are not entirely in your control, but when you focus on the efforts, the score takes care of itself.” This shifted my perspective on success metrics, emphasising process over outcomes, which has been transformative in how I approach my objectives.

In this book Bill Walsh explains his philosophy in running an American football team.

The Key points I have take it from it are:

he explains the need for routine and consistency to drill in techniques
He explains the need for attention to detail to find areas to improve
He explains the importance of the team working together to move the team forward as one unit

The insights on the importance of focusing on the process rather than being fixated on the outcome are universally applicable, whether in sports, business, or personal growth. These lessons encourage a more disciplined and detail-oriented approach to any endeavour.

These lessons can be applied to our lives creating routines at work and applying them consistency. Improving routines by focusing on the details will help you get the salary you deserve.

I would definitely reread and recommend this book to others, particularly those interested in leadership, sports management, or anyone striving to achieve personal or professional excellence. Its lessons are timeless and provide a foundation for success beyond metrics.

Tech that I am looking at:

While out in New York I got chance to try out Ray-Ban Meta Glasses. Even though I was creating a spectacle of myself (pun intended) I found their implementation impressive.

The features that particularly caught my eye were the built-in sound system and camera, which stood out for their innovative integration into everyday eyewear.

The concept of embedding these technologies directly into the frames of everyday glasses seemed both futuristic and practical.

While the practical daily benefits are yet to be fully explored, the potential for hands-free communication and easy access to a camera without the need to pull out a smartphone could streamline many everyday tasks, from navigation to capturing spontaneous moments.

The glasses connect to smartphone via Bluetooth, which allows for a seamless transition between using phone’s features and the glasses’ capabilities, such as taking photos or listening to music without additional headphones.

In situations where carrying a phone is cumbersome or intrusive—like during a crowded event or while engaging in physical activity—the Wayfarers offer a discreet way to stay connected and capture images or video without interrupting the moment.

Although innovative, the camera’s practicality is limited and might deter use in public or sensitive environments. Additionally, the dependency on a smartphone for full functionality can be a drawback in areas with poor connectivity.

Future iterations could benefit from enhanced camera discretion and perhaps greater independence from smartphones and by incorporating more standalone features.

I am not sure who would use this, I assume the built in headphones are useful to those that don’t want to wear headphones.

But the built in camera as good as it was didn’t seem to be practical.

I would recommend the Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarers to tech-savvy individuals who frequently multitask and would appreciate the convenience of integrated technology in an everyday accessory.

EDC that I own:

The Anker MagGo 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Station is one of the most utilised gadgets in my Travel EDC. I use both the portable version and the cube model, which sits next to my bedside table. The portability of the MagGo version makes it an essential component of my everyday carry for work and travel, allowing me to efficiently charge my iPhone, headphones, and Apple Watch on the move.

I chose the Anker MagGo for its compact, versatile design that supports charging multiple devices simultaneously. Its lightweight, foldable structure makes it ideal for travel compared to the heavier cube version.

When I am at work I can open it up and start using it to keep my items charged particularly to ensure the iPhone or watch does not lose charge by the end of the day.

I have used the charger with a foldable plug so it all fits into my travel pouch.

The charging station seamlessly integrates into my daily routine. At work, it’s a simple setup that keeps my devices charged throughout the day. For travel, the foldable plug and compact design fit neatly into my travel pouch, ensuring my devices never run out of power.

During a long holiday, the Anker MagGo was indispensable. It kept my iPhone and Apple Watch fully charged, allowing me to stay connected and manage my trip without having to carry multiple adapters.

One limitation is the fixed position of the charging pads, which sometimes makes it tricky to align devices properly if they’re in bulky cases. Additionally, the device does require access to a power outlet, which can be a hindrance in places without available sockets but I have plugged it in to large battery pack when needed.

Future versions could benefit from adjustable charging pads to accommodate devices in larger cases. Also, the inclusion of a battery pack for truly wireless charging would enhance its versatility.

I would highly recommend the Anker MagGo to professionals who travel frequently or anyone needing a reliable, portable solution for charging multiple devices.

Methods I have tried to implement:

I recently incorporated the SQ3R Method into my online learning regimen, particularly as I prepare for my Master’s in AI. This five-step study technique has significantly structured my approach to absorbing complex material.

There are 5 steps that its follows.

First step is the the pre-study which finds you reading the subject. In preparation for my AI Master I read articles around that subject.

The second step is to ask questions about the topics with focus on areas that I am not too sure about. I captured questions in Obsidian.

Third step is to study with deep focus this could mean reading the class books and doing the exercises. I kept my notes and exercises answers in Obsidian.

Forth step is to recall and document the items that you have read in away you can explain it to other people. I summarised and documented my notes in Obsidian

The final step is to review the items you have documented at the end of the day, end of the week and end of the month. I used Obsidian to generate questions and prompts that I could send to Anki Mobile app.

When I have applied this method I have found it useful to break the subject down to its smaller parts and sections using a mind map.

Reading the articles around the subject gave me a different perspective when doing the course.

I continue to use Anki as the basis of the active recall which is useful as I juggle studying with a full times job.

Initially, the method felt rigid and time-consuming. To adapt, I began to tailor the steps to fit my learning style and schedule better, such as integrating more flexible review times.

The SQ3R Method is surprisingly adaptable. By adjusting the time I allocate to each step based on my daily demands, I can maintain productivity even when unexpected tasks arise.

I would recommend the SQ3R Method particularly to students and professionals who engage with dense or complex material regularly. Its a good systems to start from and adapt to your needs with your chosen tools.

How about you? Have you discovered any tools, books, or methods recently that have transformed your approach to work or life? I’d love to hear about it drop a message to me on X.

Until next time, keep optimising and stay practical!

Thanks for reading,

Siv

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