My top 10 most used resources in 2023 😍 📲 ✨

Hi ,

Thanks so much for clicking on this email. 💖

As we hurtle towards the end of the year, I wanted to put together a list of my 10 most used resources, items and apps that have helped me so far in 2023.

Not everything that works for me will work for you, but hopefully you’ll find a few gems.

1. My cubed timer
I love this timer because it gets me off my phone. It’s super easy to use. I find breaking up my time helps me stay focused and get tasks done more quickly. ⏰ ⏲️

2. Notebook
For my to do list - I discovered this hack late into the year when my Click-Up list was no longer helping and I was worried I was going to drop the ball. 📝

I bought a simple A4 notebook from Kmart. At the front, on the first page I numbered the task and wrote out my to do list. I keep adding items on, cross them off (hello sense of accomplishment) and even though the numbers are into the 100’s now - I can see how much I have done over the last few months. 🤩

At the back of the notebook, working backwards, I wrote the date and who I have seen/spoken to that day. This way if there is any follow up needed, I can write it here. This includes reminders to send messages, emails, invoices etc. I do this every day and it has completely stopped that feeling of ‘oh no, I’ve forgotten to do X, Y, Z task’

3. Mentoring/coaching for me
The support, empowerment, confidence and success I get from being mentored is unparalleled. I wouldn’t be where I am doing what I am doing without it. This year, I have had 2 wonderful coaches. Amee - who encouraged me to create The Grad Life Roadmap for new grads & Jim, who has helped me with all aspects of my skills including blog writing, marketing and decision-making. Without them kicking my butt, stopping me from getting bogged down or in my way, I wouldn’t have had the amazing year I have had. 🥰 🌈 ✨

4. Software
Cliniko for running Speech Therapy Services. And Dubsado for running The Speechie Life. These 2 pieces of software help me keep everything organised, calm and automated. Don’t ever underestimate the benefits of good software and the hours/days it can save you. 🖥️

5. Books
I love to read and in 2022 I got back to buying books. I love the feel of them in my hand, the satisfaction of reading and the joy of seeing the ever-growing pile of read books. Having a hobby that you love, that gets you out of thinking of work and allows for your imagination to grow adds a lot of happiness. 📚 🤓

6. Travel - before COVID Skyscanner was my go-to website for getting the best deals on flights but now it’s Google Flights. Super easy to navigate and great prices. ✈️ 🌍

Trip-it is our favourite app for storing our travel itinerary for easy access.

E-sims - these have been a revelation. No more ordering pocket wifi devices when we are overseas or having to use a physical sim card. You can purchase a local e-sim online, add it to your phone and voila - internet coverage no matter where you are. 📲

7. We are one Roof - I discovered this networking group in June through Instagram. They had a crazy cheap deal for their year membership and I joined straight away. From the moment of signing on, it has been a joy. They have a library of masterclasses on a range of business and personal topics, in person events, online catch-ups, monthly coaching calls, journaling session and so much more. I also love that there is a directory so when I need a HR consultant, financial advisor or another professional for myself or a mentee, I have endless options. 👩‍🏫

8. People who help you - I know my zone of genius and most importantly what isn’t in that zone. Learning new software - only if I’m really keen. Back end process, graphics, social media posts, creating websites, PDF etc - no thanks. So I am utterly grateful for Robin, Tash and Bel who absolutely love this stuff and can do it easily, effortlessly and with so much skill.

Often we FEEL like we need to be able to do everything. Guess what - you definitely don’t. You will be so much happier when you find people that love what you hate and can do it faster than you can. 💖 ✨

9. Comfort - being comfortable makes everything so much easier. This year, it has meant candles to get me in the zone, electric lap blankets to keep me warm, new office desk so that I can spread out. In the clinic, it’s been storage, a second laptop cord so I don’t have to worry about leaving it behind, plants - both real and fake for greenery and a fan to get more air circulation. 🌿

Sometimes comfort can feel very indulgent or extravagant. But it can also mean ease and more enjoyment.

10. Ipad with notability - this continues to be my favourite paring and I would be lost without it. I use notability for notes, assessment forms, to take photos that I can mock up, kiddos to draw on. It can voice record, change handwriting to text, add website, clips and photos and is easily synced to GDRIVE and Dropbox. It’s a tool I use daily for both work and home. 📝📲

This is not an exhaustive list but definitely 10 that have helped make 2023 easier, more effortless and enjoyable. 🤩

I hope there are a few gems that can help you too.

If you’ve found this useful - please forward this onto a friend who might also benefit from these resources. 💖

And as always, send me an email or DM @thespeechielife_ to let me know what health changes are working for you, I would love to know!

Have an amazing day!

Your Speechie Cheerleader,

Ish