Hello Reader,

This week, we explore the power of smarter note-taking systems with Eliška Šestáková, who shares her strategies for managing complex information. Her insights will streamline your workflow, whether you’re writing, learning new skills, or organising projects. I also revisit a conversation with one of my first podcast guests, Gail Greatorex, as we delve into her remarkable transition from government to consultancy. Stay tuned for how AI and strategy can spark your creative momentum.

From Chaos to Clarity

One of the biggest challenges of working as an independent consultant is juggling client work—research, reports, and document development—while still finding time to market yourself. You’re not just delivering services but also building your brand, which means creating content and sharing your expertise.

How do you manage it all? The answer lies in effective note-taking. As your experience and knowledge grow, staying organised becomes essential. A structured note-taking system streamlines your ideas, making them accessible and actionable—whether writing articles, managing projects, or learning new skills.

Eliška Šestáková, an expert in personal knowledge management, explains how innovative note-taking systems can boost productivity and streamline your work.

Key Themes:

1. The Power of Note-Taking​
   Eliška emphasizes that note-taking isn’t just about gathering facts; it’s about structuring knowledge to make it usable. Practical notes help you think critically and apply what you’ve learned.
2. Digital Tools to Enhance Productivity​
   Eliška highlights tools like Roam Research and Logseq, which help professionals connect ideas and quickly retrieve information. These tools are invaluable for organising complex projects and allowing access to crucial insights faster.
3. Balancing Digital and Paper Systems​
   While digital tools excel at keeping your notes organszed and accessible, Eliška encourages integrating traditional paper systems. The tactile nature of paper sparks creativity, while digital tools provide efficient storage and retrieval. A balanced approach enhances both creativity and productivity.

Actionable Insights:

• Adopt a Note-Taking System​
  Choose a system that fits your style. Eliška recommends Zettelkasten for managing complex information and simpler methods for daily tasks.
• Leverage Digital Tools​
  Explore these note-taking apps:
  • Roam Research: Offers bi-directional linking to connect ideas and manage projects.
  • Logseq: Similar to Roam, user-friendly and ideal for beginners.
  • RemNote: Combines note-taking with spaced repetition to enhance knowledge retention.
  • Workflowy: An intuitive outliner with bi-directional linking, perfect for beginners.
• Combine Paper and Digital Systems​
  Blend both mediums to spark creativity while keeping your notes organised.

Turn Notes Into Action​
Don’t just collect information—use your notes to drive projects forward and maintain your competitive edge.

Eliška’s approach helps professionals streamline workflows by organising and applying knowledge, ensuring you stay at the forefront of your field.

Listen to Eliška Šestáková here https://www.wisepreneurs.au/from-chaos-to-clarity-eliska-sestakova-on-building-smarter-note-systems/​

From Shadows to Strategy: How AI Sparks Creative Momentum

I tend to be compulsive and easily drawn to new ideas, books, apps, and shiny objects. While I’m full of creative energy and aware of what I need to accomplish, I often struggle with taking the next step to turn these ideas into reality.

A T.S. Eliot quote often applies to me:

These shadows—doubts, hesitations, and uncertainties—often keep us from turning ideas into action. But I’ve found AI tools like ChatGPT to be more than helpful. Using AI as a coach helps me clarify my thoughts and move forward.

Whether organising my points, generating subheadings, or exploring ideas, AI helps break through the inertia.

Inspired by Peter Compo’s book, The Emergent Approach to Strategy, I used ChatGPT to help me write an aspirational business statement. It didn’t write the statement for me but guided me by asking the right questions and providing clarity.

A recurring challenge I’ve faced is explaining what I do. My long-term clients understand because I work with them regularly, but conveying this to others has been difficult due to my many interests. I’ve now reached a point where I’m clear on my positioning, and I’ll share it in future newsletters.

Ethan Mollick observes that while ChatGPT may not replace the creative process, it certainly enhances and refines it.

This has been my experience, especially as I prepare to speak with Peter Compo about his emergent approach to strategy.

From Government to Consultancy: Gail Greatorex’s Journey in Product Safety

Gail has been my client for several years. When I launched the Wisepreneurs Podcast, she was my first guest. Now, 60 episodes later, I was interested in revisiting her journey and exploring how her business has evolved.

With over two decades of experience in the Australian government, Gail now leads Product Safety Solutions, her consultancy. She ensures that everyday products—from children’s toys to household items—comply with stringent safety standards. Gail advocates for more robust safety measures while working closely with industry associations and government bodies.
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Episode 61 featuring Gail Greatorex will be out this Friday.
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Stay curious, stay healthy, and keep thriving. Feel free to reply to this email with your thoughts.

Nigel Rawlins
Wisepreneurs

​​https://wisepreneurs.com.au/​

​Check out all the Wisepreneurs Podcasts​
​https://www.wisepreneurs.au/​​