Level Up

Going Viral Taught Me More Than I Expected

Wed, 07 May 2025 07:00:00 +0000

None of it was planned.

But the lessons? Game-changing.

Here’s what I learned from going viral — and why it’s helped me grow as a thinker, speaker, and leader.

I didn’t plan to end up in The Daily Mail or The Australian Financial Review, but that’s exactly what happened. One was a raw, off-the-cuff TikTok interview with CoPosit about money.

The other was a deep conversation with a journalist about how young men are navigating money, mindset, and modern politics.

Both were unfiltered. Both taught me a lot.

Here’s what I learned from being in the media — and how it’s sharpened the way I think, speak, and lead.

1. Clarity Wins

I drive a 20-year-old car.
I don’t order takeaway alone.
I spend with purpose, not impulse.

These aren’t hot takes — they’re just how I live.
But that honesty resonated more than I expected.

In business and content, clear beats clever.
Say less, mean more.

2. Media Magnifies What You Stand For

The AFR called out my focus on money, discipline, and independence.
That wasn’t accidental — it’s what I believe in.

When you speak up, you don’t just get attention.
You get filtered, quoted, and shared.

So be deliberate about what you lead with.

3. Speaking Ad Lib Teaches Strategic Thinking

The CoPosit video? One take. No prep.
Just me, trying to express my mindset in under a minute.

That pressure taught me how to:

Think fast
Speak clearly
Drop the fluff

It’s a skill I now use in meetings, interviews, and even mentoring sessions.

4. People Crave Real Over Perfect

The top comment?
“Thanks for keeping it real.”

Not “You’re a guru.”
Not “That was impressive.”
Just honesty.

That’s what lands.
Not polish — presence.

5. Your Story Can Start Someone Else’s Change

What blew me away most?
The replies from students, professionals, and parents.

They weren’t reacting to me.
They were rethinking themselves.

When you’re honest about how you live, it gives others permission to reflect on how they’re living too.

TL;DR: The Spotlight Doesn’t Build You. The Process Does.

Going viral wasn’t the goal.
But it reminded me of something important:

Speak from experience
Own your values
Let real life lead the message

It’s not about attention.
It’s about intention.

Until next time,

Aftab Bismi

Outwork your Competition

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Ever feel like your workday slips away?

Hours spent, little done?

Here’s the fix: short bursts of unstoppable focus.

It’s called the Pomodoro Technique.

Inspired by a simple kitchen timer (yes, shaped like a tomato), this method has revolutionised how millions tackle their day.

And it can do the same for you.

The Problem:

Distractions are everywhere—your phone lights up, emails pile in, and meetings fracture your focus.

By the end of the day, your most important work is still untouched.

We’re told to grind harder, but the truth is your brain needs rhythm, not pressure.

The Method:

Here’s how to reclaim your focus:

Work without interruption. No switching, no scrolling.

After 4 cycles, take a longer break of 30 minutes.

A cycle so simple, yet so effective.

And if you want a little extra motivation?

Apps like Forest turn each Pomodoro into a virtual tree that grows as you stay focused. If you leave your task (and pick up your phone), the tree withers. Over time, you cultivate an entire forest, a visual reminder of your focus and progress.

Then the next session you can compare how focused you were and aim to reach that old or surpass it!

The Science:

Why does it work?

Focus thrives in sprints.

Your brain can sustain deep concentration but only for short periods. It does this far better than trying to focus for long stretches.

It breaks fuel performance. Stepping away resets your mental stamina, keeping you sharp.

A ticking timer builds urgency. That small deadline sparks action and silences procrastination.

ne standout study published in Cognition (2011) by Ariga and Lleras found that brief mental breaks help maintain focus over long tasks. When we push through without pauses, performance drops. But a short break? It refreshes your mind, keeping productivity high.

My Experience:

When I brought Pomodoro into my routine, the results were instant. I had begun using it during university, where I had long assignments that required sustained focus.

And I wasn’t drained by the end of the day.

This isn’t just about working more…it’s about working smarter. It's about completing the whole task not just being productive for one day and burning out tomorrow.

Try It Today:

Forget about powering through. It's not about pretending you can focus forever, it's knowing you can focus for 25 minutes and then you have a 5 minute break at the end of that cycle.

Set the timer. Pick one task. Start.

Let the tomato (or the tree) work its magic.

Until next time,

Aftab Bismi

Helping you level up one habit at a time.

Take notes better than AI

Aftab Bismi — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 04:58:43 +0000

This week, Aftab’s back — and he’s dropping something…unexpected. In an age of AI summaries, productivity tools, and digital notebooks, he’s doubled down on pen and paper. His reason? It works. And the framework he uses? Timeless.
Note From Ajay

Technology can do a lot. But it can’t do everything.

Especially when it comes to focus, recall, and understanding.

That’s why this note-taking method has stuck with Aftab from uni days to boardroom meetings — and it might just become your new secret weapon.

Why I Still Take Notes by Hand

Everyone’s moving fast. Tapping away. Recording. Summarising. Syncing to the cloud.

Me? I still show up to meetings with nothing but a notebook and a pen.

Sounds basic, but there’s power in simplicity. When you write by hand:

You’re fully present.
You’re not toggling tabs or distracted by pings.
You listen better (and retain more).

And that’s not just opinion. It’s backed by research.

A 2014 study from Princeton and UCLA, published in Psychological Science, found that students who took notes by hand remembered significantly more than those who typed. The researchers, Mueller and Oppenheimer, discovered that handwriting forces you to process ideas more deeply. Laptop users tend to transcribe information verbatim, but handwritten notes require you to distil, reframe, and think.

In short: writing by hand makes you smarter.

The Cornell Method: Simple, But Genius

Forget chaotic pages. Cornell gives your thoughts a map.

Here’s how it works:

Step 1: Divide the Page

Left margin: narrow column for questions, keywords, or themes
Right section: wide area for main notes in bullet or numbered form
Bottom strip: final 10% of the page for your summary — what really matters

Step 2: Use It Like a Pro

Before the meeting: Jot down key points or questions in the left column
During: Capture ideas and insights in the main note area
After: Distil it all into a sharp summary at the bottom

That act of summarising? It’s where the gold is.
You’re not just capturing info. You’re processing it.

Why It Still Works (Better Than You’d Expect)

It makes you think — you need to summarise as you can’t write as fast as someone speaks
You walk away with simplicity, not just a transcript
It’s fast. No app crashes, no tech barriers (except running out of ink 😛)
It sticks. Because handwriting boosts memory and understanding

Whether it’s a high-stakes meeting or a quick coffee chat — this framework keeps me focused, prepared, and sharp.

Final Thought

AI can summarise or expand on what was said. But it can’t tell you why it mattered. That part is still on you.

So next time you walk into a meeting, try it: Just a pen, a page, and a little structure.

You’ll be surprised what your brain can do — when you give it the space to work.

Until next time,

Aftab Bismi
(LinkedIn, Instagram)

Are You a Multiplier or a Diminisher?

Aftab Bismi — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 06:00:00 +0000

This week, I’m passing the mic to Aftab — a long-time friend with a unique edge. He’s climbed the corporate ladder and built a six-figure side business along the way. His perspective? Rare. Sharp. Worth your time. Give it a read.
Note from Ajay

The best leaders don’t add value. They multiply it.

Not with titles. Not with org charts.
But with how they show up, listen, and trust their team to grow.

A line from Multipliers hit me like a brick:

“Diminishers get less than half of people’s true capability.”

This book hit harder than I expected. It draws a sharp line between two types of leaders:

Diminishers shrink the potential around them. They micromanage, second-guess, and unintentionally drain the intelligence from the room.
Multipliers do the opposite. They create room for others to rise — unlocking more capability, not less.

The Three Levels of Team Efficiency

Leadership isn’t binary — it’s layered.

Level 1: Isolation.
Everyone works in silos. Output is capped at what each person can deliver solo.
Level 2: Collaboration.
People work together, but their individual strengths are still the limit. The whole is slightly more than the sum of its parts — but not by much.
Level 3: Multiplying.
A strong leader brings clarity, direction, and belief. Contributions align, friction fades, and the team starts to compound. That’s when real momentum kicks in — and 1 + 1 starts to equal 10.

5 Habits of Leaders Who Multiply

Talent Magnet
They spot potential before others do — and give it room to breathe. Multipliers don’t just hire well. They help people become 10x versions of themselves.
Liberator
They create psychological safety — where people feel free to speak up, take risks, and still be held accountable.
As Liz Wiseman puts it: “Real growth happens outside the comfort zone, inside a safe environment.”
Challenger
They raise the bar. Ask better questions. Expect more. They don’t coddle — they call people up.
Debate Maker
They welcome disagreement. Not for drama — for better decisions. Truth beats harmony.
Investor
They delegate with trust, not micromanagement.
By stepping back, they actually get more done — not less.

One quote that stuck:

“Your assumptions about people’s intelligence determine how much intelligence you get.”

That one made me pause. If you assume your team is smart, resourceful, and capable — you’ll get a lot more of that. People tend to rise to the expectations you set, even when unspoken.

Final Thought

You don’t need a fancy title or a massive team to be a multiplier.

You just need to start small:

Ask before you tell.
Give someone full ownership of something that matters.
Celebrate effort, not just outcomes.

Multipliers don’t hoard the mic.
They hand it over — and back people to sing.

Until next time,

Aftab Bismi (LinkedIn)

The Anti-Productivity Guide

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Hey—

Last month I hit rock bottom:
I made a spreadsheet… to optimize my lunch breaks.

Color-coded. Microwave heatmaps. A formula for peak chewing time.

And at some point, I sat there—fork in one hand, Google Sheet in the other—and thought:

What if all this “being productive” is actually making me worse at what matters?

So I ran a little experiment.
I started doing less. On purpose.
And weirdly… I started getting more of the right things done.

The Burnout Flex Is Dead

I used to wear “I’m slammed” like a crown.
Inbox full. Calendar blocked. Energy? Nonexistent.

But here’s the kicker:

Over 745,000 people died in 2016 from overwork.
(WHO study, not a wellness blog)

Clocking 55+ hours a week literally increases your chance of heart disease and stroke. And still, 80% of us walk around with “Productivity Anxiety” like we’re one Slack ping away from salvation.

The whole system’s broken. So I started looking for another way.

Enter: Strategic Inefficiency™

This isn’t slacking off. This is intentional slack in your system.

The kind that lets real work (the deep, creative, surprising kind) actually happen.

It looks like:

Wandering thoughts
Blank notebooks
Walks without podcasts
Coffee with people outside your “lane”
Saying “no” when your brain screams “more!”

Boston Consulting Group ran a study:
Forced their consultants to stop working predictably each week.

The result?
+72% work satisfaction
+79% work-life balance
(And probably fewer rage quits)

What I Tried (And What Actually Worked)

I ran my own anti-productivity pilot. One month. Four simple rules:

1. The 80% Rule
I stopped trying to hit 100% output. I planned to hit 80%. The rest? Margin. Cushion. Space.

2. Unstructured Thinking Blocks
30 minutes. No devices. No goals. No “optimizing.” Just thoughts doing laps in my head.

3. The Impossible Deadline Pause
When a task felt too tight, I didn’t push—I paused. 15-minute break. No guilt.

4. Surprise Inputs
Talked to people in totally different fields. Read random articles. Took new routes. Got ideas I’d never Google.

The result?

More clarity. Less stress. And 3 creative ideas I’d been chasing for months finally showed up.

How You Can Try It

Here’s your starter kit:

→ No-Productivity Zones
Block off 30 minutes this week for doing… nothing useful.
Walk. Doodle. Lie on the floor and stare at the ceiling.

→ Productive Constraints
Give yourself creative limits:

“Explain this idea in exactly 50 words”
“Finish in 25 minutes”
“Don’t use your go-to tools”

Constraints = fuel, not fences.

→ Recovery = Work
Sleep, gym, naps, walks—these aren’t breaks from work.
They are work.
Just not the kind that looks impressive on Slack.

→ Inject Randomness
Talk to someone outside your bubble.
Read something unrelated to your field.
Swap routines. Shake the snowglobe.

The Real Job Isn’t Doing More

It’s doing the right things well.

We chase productivity because we can’t tell the difference between motion and progress.

But the magic—the insight, the breakthrough, the leap—that usually shows up when you stop trying so hard to catch it.

Try This Today

Take one meeting or task on your calendar and cut it in half.
Use that freed-up time to think—no phone, no plan, no guilt.

Until next time,

Ajay

Collecting 'Skills'

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 05:00:00 +0000

Hey there,

Last week, I found myself at a dinner party being introduced as "Ajay, the guy who does... well, a bunch of different things." I laughed, but inside I was thinking: Is this a compliment or am I just unfocused?

For years, I worried that my diverse interests—from writing to data analysis to public speaking—meant I wasn't specializing enough. Everyone talks about becoming world-class in ONE thing, right? But then I realized something powerful: my seemingly random collection of skills had actually created something valuable that specialists couldn't easily replicate—a career moat that protected me during industry shifts and opened doors that should have been closed to me.

Why Most Career Advice Gets It Wrong

Most of us have heard the traditional wisdom: pick a lane, get really good at it, and climb that ladder. But in today's rapidly changing job landscape, I've noticed something different happening.

The professionals who seem most resilient aren't just specialists—they're skill collectors who have built unique combinations of abilities that make them extraordinarily valuable in unexpected ways.

Scott Adams (creator of Dilbert) calls this "skill stacking," and his own story illustrates it perfectly. He wasn't the world's best artist, businessman, or comedian. Instead, he combined:

Decent drawing abilities
Business knowledge from his corporate experience
A sharp sense of humor

This unique combination created something remarkable that someone with just one of these skills couldn't achieve.

Creating Your Career Moat

A moat, as Warren Buffett describes it, is a competitive advantage that's difficult for others to replicate. Your career moat is what keeps you valuable even when:

Technology disrupts your industry
Economic downturns happen
Your company restructures

Building this moat isn't about collecting random skills—it's about intentionally combining complementary abilities that create unique value. Here's how to start:

1. Identify your core strength What's the one thing you're already known for or naturally good at? This becomes your foundation.

2. Add unexpected complements Instead of doubling down on similar skills, look for contrasting abilities that create valuable tension:

Technical + communication skills
Analytical + creative thinking
Industry expertise + outside perspective

3. Look for the gaps Where do you see opportunities that others are missing? What problems exist between disciplines that no one is addressing?

Real-World Examples of Skill Stacking

I have a friend who combined her psychology background with coding skills to become invaluable in UX research—earning double what her peers make because she bridges two worlds that rarely overlap well.

Another acquaintance paired financial analysis with exceptional storytelling abilities to become a sought-after consultant who can translate complex data into compelling recommendations executives actually understand and act on.

For me, combining writing skills with data analysis and coaching experience created opportunities in content strategy that simply weren't available to pure writers or pure analysts.

Start Building Your Skill Stack Today

You don't need to learn 20 new skills at once. Instead:

Map your current skills (even ones you take for granted)
Identify one complementary skill that would create unique value
Allocate just 20 minutes daily to developing that skill

The beauty of skill stacking is that you don't need to be world-class at everything—being in the top 25% of several complementary skills creates more unique value than being in the top 1% of just one.

Remember: A unique combination of good skills is often more valuable than mastery of a single ability.

Your Turn

What's your current skill stack? What one skill could you add that would create an unusual and valuable combination? Hit reply and let me know—I'd love to hear what unique combination you're working towards.

Until next time,

Ajay

P.S. If you're wondering how to identify truly complementary skills (rather than just random ones), try this quick exercise: Write down three problems in your industry that seem to fall between different disciplines or departments. The skills needed to solve these "in-between" problems often form powerful combinations.

How 5,126 failures resulted in extreme success

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 05:00:00 +0000

Hey there,

Early in my career, I pitched what I thought was a brilliant idea to our leadership team. I'd spent weeks refining it, running the numbers, and practicing my delivery. When I finished my presentation, the room fell silent. Then came the questions—probing, skeptical, and ultimately revealing all the flaws in my concept.

I walked out feeling like I'd just experienced a professional face-plant in front of everyone who mattered.

But here's the thing: that spectacular failure taught me more in 20 minutes than months of smooth sailing ever could. And it got me thinking about how we're conditioned to avoid failure at all costs, when maybe we should be viewing it differently.

The Fear That Holds Us Back

Did you know that approximately 30% of Americans experience a genuine fear of failure? And it's not just us—this fear is universal:

57% of adults in India avoid starting businesses due to fear of failing
54% in Spain
48% in the UK
41% right in the US

Half of all professionals believe they could perform better at work if they weren't afraid of stumbling. That's a staggering amount of untapped potential locked behind our fear of mistakes.

The Secret History of Success

What's fascinating is that when you look closely at the people we admire most, their paths are littered with failures:

Sir James Dyson created 5,126 failed prototypes before perfecting his revolutionary vacuum
Steven Spielberg was rejected from film school... three times
Thomas Edison famously said of his lightbulb attempts: "I haven't failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work"
Michael Jordan put it perfectly: "I've missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. Twenty-six times I've been trusted to take the game-winning shot and missed."

These aren't just cute stories of persistence—they reveal something fundamental about how growth actually happens.

The Secret History of Success - How to Transform Failure into Fuel

So how do we actually make failure work for us instead of against us? Here's my three-step approach that's changed everything for me:

1. Separate Incident from Identity

When you fail, notice if you're saying "I am a failure" versus "That attempt failed." The difference is crucial. One statement is about your worth; the other is about a specific event with specific lessons.

2. Extract the Data

After any setback, ask these three questions:

What specifically didn't work?
What surprised me?
What would I do differently with this new information?

Write down your answers. This transforms vague disappointment into actionable insights.

3. Create a "Failure Resume"

This might sound strange, but try keeping a document of your biggest professional failures and what each one taught you. I review mine quarterly, and it's become one of my most valuable resources.

Here’s How We Can Help 🚀
Here are a few recommendations or ways we can help you. Follow the links if any of these are interesting.

👨‍💻 Build your skills: Want to do a tech course you’ll actually finish? Try EntryLevel
🌍 Find a Job: Try applying for work with Athyna
📰 Build a Newsletter: Want to build a newsletter like us? Try Beehiiv

The Resilience Factor

Research shows that resilience to failure is linked to higher self-esteem and lower perfectionism. But resilience isn't something you're born with—it's a muscle you build by facing setbacks and moving forward anyway.

Each time you encounter failure and choose to learn rather than retreat, you're strengthening this muscle. And in today's rapidly changing work environment, adaptability and resilience are becoming more valuable than technical skills that can quickly become outdated.

Your Turn

This week, I challenge you to reframe one recent "failure" using the three steps above. It can be something small—a presentation that fell flat, feedback you didn't handle well, or a project that didn't meet expectations.

Take 10 minutes, work through the process, and notice how differently you feel about the experience afterward.

Hit reply and let me know what insights you discover. I'd genuinely love to hear how this works for you.

Until Next Time,

Ajay

Become the Key AI Builder

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Scared of AI? Spend 30% of Your Time Playing with It (and Change Your Career)

Here’s the thing: If AI makes you nervous, you’re not alone. It's moving fast, it's changing how we work, and it's easy to feel like you're falling behind. But here's a mindset shift that changed my career: Instead of fearing AI, I started playing with it.

And it made all the difference.

I dedicated about 30% of my time to tinkering with AI tools, building small automations, and supporting AI-driven projects. Fast forward to today, and I'm often seen as the "AI & Automation person" in any room I walk into. It’s one of the biggest reasons I'm so hirable.

Why 30%?

It’s enough time to:

Stay Curious: You’ll start seeing patterns, opportunities, and problems AI can solve.
Build Real Stuff: Whether it's automating small tasks or creating helpful workflows, you'll start developing practical skills.
Get Noticed: When people see you solving problems with AI, they’ll come to you with more challenges. And that’s how you become invaluable.

How to Start Playing with AI (Even If You're a Total Beginner)

Automate One Tiny Task: Is there something in your job that feels repetitive? Automate it. Maybe it’s sorting emails, summarizing meeting notes, or scheduling posts. Pick a simple tool like Zapier or ChatGPT and experiment.
Join AI Communities: Surround yourself with curious builders. Reddit, Discord groups, or even local meetups can spark new ideas and help you learn faster.
Tinker Weekly: Block 1-2 hours a week just to play. No expectations. Just mess around, test tools, and learn what’s possible.
Share What You Build: Post on LinkedIn or share with your team. You’ll be surprised how quickly people start seeing you as the go-to person for AI insights.

Why This Makes You Instantly More Hirable

Because here’s the secret: Most people are still avoiding AI. They're waiting for instructions or for someone else to figure it out first. But companies are desperate for people who can bridge that gap—those who take initiative and find smart, automated solutions.

When you become the person who knows how to leverage AI, you’re not just keeping up. You’re leading.

And the best part? You don't have to be an AI engineer. Just being the person who asks, "Could AI help with this?" and then prototypes a solution makes you incredibly valuable.

The Bottom Line

If you're scared of AI, don’t run from it. Lean in. Spend 30% of your time playing with it, and you'll not only stop fearing the future—you’ll shape it.

So, what’s the first tiny task you can automate this week?

Until next time,

Ajay

Become More Creative

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 05:00:00 +0000

A few years ago, I stumbled across an idea from Tim Ferriss that completely shifted how I think about creativity. He calls it the ‘creative gym.’ The premise? Creativity isn’t some magical force that visits us when the stars align—it’s a muscle. And like any muscle, if you don’t train it, it atrophies.

At first, I brushed it off. Surely, creativity is different, right? You don’t grind creativity the way you grind out squats at the gym. But then I realized that the times I felt the most ‘stuck’ creatively were also the times I wasn’t exercising it at all. Meanwhile, the periods where I was experimenting, playing, and forcing myself to generate ideas—whether good or bad—were the ones where creativity flowed effortlessly.

So, what does training creativity actually look like? Let’s break it down.

Step 1: Set Your Creative Reps

Tim Ferriss suggests picking a daily creative workout—something structured but playful. It could be:

Writing 10 ideas a day (à la James Altucher)
Sketching a doodle every morning
Writing one paragraph of a story before bed
Composing a ridiculous song in 5 minutes

The key is not waiting for inspiration but committing to a consistent practice. This builds idea fluency—the ability to generate lots of ideas, even bad ones, which eventually leads to breakthroughs.

I started doing a version of this by forcing myself to write 5 newsletter subject lines a day, even if I had no intention of using them. Most were garbage. Some were okay. A few were gold. But the exercise itself made my brain more nimble when it came time to write something important.

Step 2: Make It Low-Stakes

A big reason people feel creatively blocked is fear of judgment. The creative gym works because it shifts the mindset from “I must create something genius” to “This is just a warm-up.”

Ferriss himself keeps a ‘bad ideas’ list. He writes down deliberately terrible business ideas, jokes, and book concepts. It’s an exercise in letting go of perfectionism. Once you take the pressure off, the good ideas start sneaking in.

If you’re feeling creatively stuck, try this:

Write the worst possible solution to a problem.
Create something you know is ridiculous.
Set a rule that you’re not allowed to use the backspace key for 10 minutes.

Creativity loves play. If it feels too serious, you’re probably doing it wrong.

Step 3: Gamify the Process

One thing I’ve learned? If you make creativity a game, it’s way easier to stick with it.

Ferriss suggests giving yourself constraints—almost like a challenge mode for your brain. For example:

Write a tweet using only 10 words.
Explain a complex idea as if you’re talking to a 5-year-old.
Make a business idea based on two random words from a dictionary.

When constraints are in place, creativity thrives. It’s why hackathons produce brilliant ideas under pressure and why Dr. Seuss wrote Green Eggs & Ham using only 50 words as a bet.

If you want to go full game-mode, you can:

✅ Track your creative ‘streak’ (how many days in a row you train)
✅ Set a point system (e.g., 5 points for each idea generated)
✅ Join a challenge with friends (first to 100 ideas wins)

Step 4: Steal Like a Scientist

Here’s a Tim Ferriss classic: don’t start from scratch—steal structures that work.

Want to write a book? Reverse-engineer the structure of one you love.
Want to design a logo? Copy the shape and proportions of successful ones.
Want to launch a business? Analyze the models of similar companies.

This isn’t plagiarism—it’s how innovation happens. Every great artist, writer, and entrepreneur stands on the shoulders of others. The trick is to remix, not replicate.

A fun exercise:

1. Pick a creator you admire.
2. Study their work deeply.
3. Copy their structure, but apply your own spin.

When I started my newsletter, I didn’t invent the format. I studied what was working, adapted it, and then made it my own. Speed matters more than originality in the beginning.

Final Takeaway: Creativity is a Gym, Not a Temple

If you’re waiting for some divine aha! moment, stop. Creativity doesn’t work that way. It’s a process. A muscle. A gym session.

You don’t get fit by thinking about working out—you show up, lift the weights, and trust the progress will come. Same with creativity.

So, your challenge? Pick one creative rep and start today. It could be:

🔹 Writing five bad ideas right now
🔹 Doodling something ridiculous in 30 seconds
🔹 Rewriting a famous quote in a weird way

Until next time,

Ajay

Work Styles

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 05:00:00 +0000

Let’s talk about how you get stuff done.

Some people love to “eat the frog”—tackling the hardest, most daunting task first so everything else feels easy by comparison. Others prefer to “rev up”—starting with small, easy wins to build momentum before diving into the big stuff.

Neither approach is wrong. But knowing which one suits you best? That’s a game-changer.

The Frog Slayer: Rip Off the Band-Aid

If you’re the type who wants to get the hardest thing out of the way first, congrats—you’re a Frog Slayer (inspired by Mark Twain’s famous advice: “Eat a live frog first thing in the morning, and nothing worse will happen to you the rest of the day”).

Signs You’re a Frog Slayer:

✅ You hate the weight of an unfinished big task hanging over you.
✅ You feel most productive when you get the worst thing done early.
✅ You’d rather endure short-term pain for long-term relief.

How to make it work for you:

Identify the one most challenging task the night before.
Start your day with a distraction-free deep focus session.
Reward yourself with something enjoyable afterward (a coffee, a walk, or a small dopamine hit).

The Momentum Builder: Small Wins First

Then there’s the Momentum Builder—the person who starts with small, easy tasks to get into the groove. This style works because checking off quick wins creates psychological momentum, making it easier to tackle bigger tasks.

Signs You’re a Momentum Builder:

✅ You feel sluggish jumping straight into a big task.
✅ You like warming up with emails, tidying up, or quick tasks.
✅ You gain energy from seeing visible progress early on.

How to make it work for you:

Create a short “warm-up” list (3–5 simple tasks).
Set a time limit—15 to 30 minutes max—before shifting to your bigger priority.
Use the momentum from those small wins to dive into deeper work.

Which One Are You?

The key is self-awareness. If you force yourself into a working style that doesn’t match your natural rhythm, you’ll struggle with procrastination, frustration, or burnout.

You might even be a hybrid—starting your day with a small win (momentum), then diving into a major task (frog slaying). The trick is to experiment and see what makes you feel most effective.

So, what’s your work style? Frog Slayer or Momentum Builder? Or a mix of both? Let me know—I’d love to hear how you approach your day!

Until next time,

Ajay

Meet Your AI Boss

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 06:00:00 +0000

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Hey there,

A year ago, I was struggling to keep up with everything—gym routines, personal projects, even fun stuff like learning guitar. I’d set big goals, but by midweek, they’d already started slipping.

That’s when I decided to turn AI into my personal accountability partner—or as I call it, my “AI Boss.”

What’s an AI Boss?

Think of it as your digital coach—helping you set realistic goals, track progress, and stay on course. Instead of waiting for feedback from a friend or colleague, you get instant input on your daily to-do list, weekly plan, or any new ideas you want to explore.

How to Use an AI Boss for Maximum Productivity

🚀 Step 1: Define Your “Why”

Start by telling your AI Boss why your goal matters. What’s your deeper motivation?

• Training for a marathon to build endurance?

• Writing a book to share your expertise?

• Learning a new skill to grow your career?

Write it down like a mission statement and share it with your AI. This keeps you focused and motivated when life gets chaotic.

🛠 Step 2: Break Big Goals into Small Wins

Instead of dumping a vague goal like “Run a marathon” on your AI, break it down into trackable milestones:

✔️ Increase running distance weekly

✔️ Add one speed workout per week

✔️ Monitor recovery & nutrition

Each time you check in with your AI Boss, update it on which part of the plan you tackled. This helps it track progress and nudge you in the right direction.

📅 Step 3: Plan Your Week & Share It

Every Sunday (or Monday), map out your top 3-5 priorities for the week.

Finish a chapter of your book
Schedule two gym sessions
Practice a language for 30 minutes a day

Then, upload this plan to your AI—so it knows what to keep you accountable for.

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📊 Step 4: Daily Check-Ins

At the end of each day, run through your progress:

Missed a task? Acknowledge it.
Discovered a new priority? Add it in.
Pivoting your goal? Let your AI Boss know.

The AI will spot patterns, highlight blind spots, and suggest priorities for the next day.

🔍 Step 5: Reflect & Optimize

Every week or month, ask your AI Boss for a progress review.

“Here’s where I started. Here’s where I am. What’s working? What’s not?”
“Where am I most consistent? Where am I struggling?”

The AI can help identify gaps, inefficiencies, or strengths you may not have noticed.

Why This Works

✅ Consistency – Daily check-ins keep your goals top of mind.

✅ Clarity – You know exactly what matters because you’ve defined your long-term vision.

✅ Accountability – Even if it’s “just an AI,” the act of reporting progress makes you more likely to follow through.

It Felt Weird at First… But Then It Worked

When I first tried this, I felt a little awkward. I mean, I was reporting to an AI. But after a week, it felt natural.

I realized I was finally consistent because I had somewhere to check in—without guilt, without pressure. The AI didn’t judge me when I fell behind. It just nudged me to adjust and move forward.

Try It for Yourself

🔹 Step 1: Pick one goal—fitness, creativity, learning, anything.

🔹 Step 2: Upload it to an AI—ChatGPT, Notion AI, or any platform that allows for tracking.

🔹 Step 3: Start with daily updates. Quick check-ins keep you on track.

🔹 Step 4: Adjust as needed—refine your prompts, add more detail, or tweak your goals.

Give it a shot and see what happens when you have an AI in your corner—reliable, persistent, and always pushing you forward.\

Would love to hear how it works out for you!

Until next time,

Ajay Prakash

What makes an A+ Player?

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 06:00:00 +0000

So I started a new job a month ago. This is what my boss sent to another colleague of mine:

I’ll announce my job publicly sometime in March. Let me get settled first 😉

The funny thing is I didn’t know if he liked my communication style until he screenshotted and sent me this message. For those who aren’t familiar with the term “goat”, it means “Greatest of All Time”.

To me this is such a simple thing but it makes a huge difference

The Power of Flagposting

You know when you open a chat or email and it looks like a novel you have to sift through? Cue the instant dread. By using “flagposting”—little markers like bold headers, italics, bullet points, and clear labels—you remove all that extra friction for your reader.

Instead of writing this:

Hey, can you update me on the new product launch timeline for next quarter, confirm whether the client wants a weekly or biweekly check-in call, and also let me know if you’ve wrapped up the onboarding document for the interns?
Ajay

You could write:

I have a few questions:
→ What’s the ETA for the latest product launch?
→ Does the client for X project want a weekly or bi-weekly call?
→ Have you finished the onboarding documents for the interns?
Ajay

Why It Matters

Saves Time: Your boss or colleague knows exactly what action to take and where to respond.
Boosts Clarity: No more long-winded explanations buried in paragraphs.
Makes You Look Like a Pro: Trust me—higher-ups love when communication is streamlined. It shows you’re organised and considerate of everyone’s time.

Think about how much easier internet communications became with the introduction of HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol), when we had formalised ways of sending and receiving data. GET requests are all about retrieving information, while POST requests are about submitting data. And it’s instantly clear when you see a HTTP 404: Not Found or a HTTP 200: OK—there’s no guessing involved.

That’s the standard we should aim for in our day-to-day communication: structured, concise, and impossible to misinterpret.

ACTION: Next time you send a message, spend an extra 20 seconds reviewing the format and ensure it’s easy to read. It makes a world of difference.

Until Next Time,

Ajay

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Career Liquidity

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 05:08:00 +0000

I recently stumbled upon an intriguing concept that got me thinking about our career paths—it’s called “career liquidity.” Imagine you’re at a crossroads, deciding between a well-trodden path and an uncharted trail. This idea of liquidity in careers can shed some light on that choice.

What Is Career Liquidity?

In finance, liquidity refers to how quickly an asset can be converted into cash without affecting its price. Applying this to careers, a “liquid” career path is one where your skills and experiences are easily recognised and valued by employers, making transitions smoother. Conversely, an “illiquid” career path involves unique or less conventional experiences that might be harder for employers to assess, potentially making job moves more challenging.

Liquid Career Paths: The Familiar Route

Take, for example, someone who spends four years as a management consultant at a renowned firm like McKinsey. Employers have a clear understanding of what this experience entails—strong analytical skills, client management, and a certain level of polish. This clarity makes it easier for such professionals to move between roles or industries, as their value is well-understood in the job market.

Illiquid Career Paths: The Road Less Traveled

Now, consider someone who has a more eclectic background—perhaps a mix of travel, nonprofit work, side projects, and a stint at a startup. While this journey might have equipped them with diverse skills and perspectives, employers might find it challenging to assess their fit for a specific role due to the unconventional path. This ambiguity can make transitions less straightforward.

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Factors Influencing Career Liquidity

Several elements can affect how “liquid” your career is:

• Industry Growth: Skills in high-growth industries tend to be more liquid due to increased demand.

• Skill Specificity: Highly specific and well-defined skills, like carpentry, are easier for employers to evaluate, enhancing liquidity.

• Testability: Skills that can be easily assessed, such as coding through technical tests, increase career liquidity.

• Institutional Brand: Experience with well-known organizations can boost your career’s liquidity, as these brands often serve as proxies for certain competencies.

Balancing Act: Liquid vs. Illiquid

Choosing between a liquid and illiquid career path depends on your personal goals and risk tolerance. Liquid paths offer psychological comfort and optionality, providing clearer expectations for progression and compensation. However, they can be more competitive and may not fully capture your unique value.

On the flip side, illiquid paths, while riskier and less certain, can lead to unique opportunities and potentially greater rewards. They allow for personalisation and can set you apart in ways that standardised paths might not.

Reflecting on Your Path

As you navigate your career, consider where you fall on the liquidity spectrum. Are you drawn to the stability and clarity of a liquid path, or does the allure of forging your own unique journey appeal to you more? There’s no right or wrong answer—it’s about aligning your career strategy with your personal values, goals, and appetite for risk.

To be honest - my own career is far more illiquid but I’ve found many benefits to that. However - it’s really up to you how you should proceed. I think it’s useful to understand at least if you’re building an illiquid or liquid carer and if you’re okay with it.

Until next time,

Ajay

How to come up with ideas

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 05:00:00 +0000

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Hey guys,

Let me tell you a secret: I almost didn’t write this newsletter. Or more accurately, I couldn’t—every time I tried, the page stared back blankly. I was desperate for new angles and insights, but my brain felt like it was stuck on repeat. Finally, I realised something: my information diet was stale. I kept reading the same blogs, watching the same shows, talking to the same people, and then wondering why my ideas were going nowhere.

So, I made one small tweak:

I decided to explore topics completely unrelated to what I usually consume. I switched out my typical marketing podcasts for documentaries on astrophysics, scrolled through niche Reddit communities I’d never visited, and started striking up random conversations with folks in different fields.

Suddenly, something clicked. It was like my brain’s gears got greased, and I found myself jotting down a flood of new newsletter ideas. The quality of my ideas also shot up—because I was connecting dots from new, unexpected places.

Here’s how you can do the same:

Change Your Input

Sign up for a newsletter on a topic you know nothing about, read an article from a field you’re curious about, or watch a documentary outside your comfort zone. Strange inputs spark fresh outputs.

For example, I recently read these books which seem completely random but gave me broader insights:

What I talk about When I talk about Running - Haruki Murakami (a Japanese author that began running)
Servo by David Goodwin - a biography of his time working at a petrol station from midnight to 6am for 6 years
Norse Mythology by Neil Gaiman - a book that tries it’s best to piece together the writings about norse mythology

Don’t get me wrong - I also really enjoy their writing and reading it but it’s something fresh & different.

Brainstorm Without Judgment

Write down every idea, even if it feels ridiculous. Trust me, half of my best ideas started as “This might be dumb, but…” thoughts.

As an exercise, just try to come up with 3 ideas a day. Just force it out of yourself - after a while, the tap won’t stop and you’ll struggle to keep it to only 3 ideas a day.

Get Your Idea Outside of Your Brain

Share your rough ideas with a friend or a community that’s supportive yet honest. Constructive feedback can refine a messy spark into a brilliant concept.

I end up DMing 2-3 friends who might have something interesting to say about it. Sometimes you won’t hear from me for months and randomly i’ll message: “Hey X, I had this idea and it made me think of you. What do you think of this?”

Most people appreciate being thought of and reconnecting over a cool idea

Let Your Mind Wander

How often do you actually do nothing? My best ideas come to be when I’m doing nothing.

Limit your inputs for a bit - don’t have a background TV show or music. Just sit and let the brain go where it wants to go.

Here’s my challenge to you!

For the next 30 days come up with 3 ideas a day. Can be for business or whatever frame you want to put on it. Business is the easiest lens but maybe you want more ideas for stories or artistic things.

Feel free to email me the 90 ideas after the 30 day challenge. (Also don’t use AI to generate the ideas, try to use AI to guide you, ask thoughtful questions and teach you cool things)

Until next time,

Ajay

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How to Update your Boss 10x Better

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 05:00:00 +0000

Hey guys,

I still remember the first time I sent my boss a project update that was all over the map—I had paragraphs of backstory, random details, and about three different “asks” crammed in. She read it, looked at me politely, and asked, “So…what do you need me to do here?” That’s when I realised: clarity is everything when it comes to communicating with your manager.

The truth is, your boss (and any manager, really) is juggling a ton of priorities, deadlines, and people. Delivering updates that are straightforward and crystal clear doesn’t just help them—it sets you apart as someone who knows how to communicate effectively. And trust me, you don’t need to write a novel to do it.

Be Clear on the Type of Update

One of the quickest fixes is to label your update for what it is:

FYI: “I’m doing this—just letting you know.”
Approval: “I’m doing this—do you approve?”
Decision: “Can you help me choose between A, B, or C?”
Closing the loop: “Remember that thing I was doing? Here’s how it wrapped up.”

This not only streamlines your manager’s decision-making but also helps you stay laser-focused on what you want from them.

See how much easier it is to read?

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Use a Simple Framework: What, Why, So What

When you’re informing your boss about something that happened, keep it tight with these three questions:

What happened?
Share the event or situation without rambling. Just the facts, please.
Why did it happen?
Offer a quick explanation of the cause or context so they understand the background.
So what?
- Do you need anything from them?
- What action are you taking?
This is your chance to either ask for help, get a decision, or simply let them know you’ve got it covered.

A Quick Example

Say a deliverable is running late. Your update might look like this:

Notice how concise (but complete) that is? No extra fluff—just clarity.

Try It Out

Next time you send an update—whether it’s in Slack, email, or a quick call—start by labeling it as FYI, Approval, Decision, or Closing the Loop. Then follow up with What, Why, So What. I promise, your manager (and your future self) will thank you.

Call to Action: Give this a go today on your next update and see how your boss responds. Hit reply and let me know how it feels to communicate in such a concise way. I’d love to hear about your experience!

Until next time,

Ajay

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How to Work So Fast Everyone Asks, “How Do You Do It?”

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 05:00:00 +0000

You know that person in the office (or maybe in your friend group) who seems to move at warp speed? Deadlines don’t scare them. Tasks seem to melt away under their fingertips. And somehow, they make it look effortless.

Here’s the thing: You can become that person. It’s not about being a genius or working endless hours—it’s about mastering a handful of principles and habits. Let’s break down four proven ways to work faster (and smarter) with some fresh ideas you probably haven’t tried yet.

1. Rush to 80%: Good Enough Is Better Than Perfect

Here’s a little secret: most high achievers rarely aim for perfection on the first go. They sprint to get 80% of the work done fast, then refine only what matters. This idea is backed by the Pareto Principle (the 80/20 rule): 80% of results come from just 20% of your effort.

💡 Proof in Action: A 2019 study published in Psychological Review found that “satisficers” (those who settle for good enough) are not only faster but also less prone to burnout than “maximisers” who aim for perfection.

✅ How to Apply It:

Set a timer and give yourself 30 minutes to outline or draft. Ignore details like fonts, grammar, or formatting.
Once the foundation is solid, focus only on polishing the parts that will have the biggest impact.

Mantra: Done beats perfect. Every. Single. Time.

2. Train Your Brain for Speed: Play Strategy Games

This one might sound surprising, but there’s solid science behind it: playing games like chess, Rubik’s Cube, or real-time strategy video games can make you faster at mental processing and decision-making. These activities teach your brain to spot patterns, think ahead, and react quickly—all skills that translate to faster work.

💡 Proof in Action: A 2021 study in Nature Human Behaviour showed that regular players of real-time strategy games improved their cognitive flexibility, which is directly linked to quicker decision-making in real-world scenarios.

✅ How to Apply It:

Dedicate 15-20 minutes a day to a brain-challenging activity. Play chess, solve puzzles, or try an app like Lumosity.
For a quick boost, tackle a Rubik’s Cube while brainstorming—it’s surprisingly meditative!

Mantra: Train fast, think fast, work fast.

3. Simplify the Battlefield: Kill Task Switching

If you feel slow or scattered, there’s a good chance task switching is to blame. Every time you switch tasks, your brain spends energy reorienting. That transition time adds up—one study by the American Psychological Association found that task switching can reduce productivity by 40%.

💡 Proof in Action: In a famous Stanford study, heavy multitaskers performed worse on cognitive tests than those who focused on one task at a time.

✅ How to Apply It:

Group similar tasks into blocks: Emails in one block, writing in another, and meetings in a third.
Use the “two-tab rule” on your browser to limit distractions.

Mantra: One task. One focus. Repeat.

4. Automate to Accelerate

Fast people don’t reinvent the wheel—they build systems and lean on automation. Templates, apps, and workflows do the heavy lifting, leaving their brainpower free for creative work.

💡 Proof in Action: A report by McKinsey estimates that 45% of tasks in most jobs could be automated with current technology. Imagine how much faster you’d be if you automated even 10% of yours.

✅ How to Apply It:

Use tools like Zapier or IFTTT to connect apps and automate repetitive tasks.
Create templates for emails, proposals, and reports—so you’re never starting from scratch.

Mantra: Let the machines do the boring stuff.

5. Build a Fast-Start Ritual: Speed Begins with Momentum

Starting is often the hardest (and slowest) part of any task. Fast workers hack this by creating rituals that launch them straight into action mode. It could be as simple as brewing coffee while outlining the day’s priorities or playing an energising song to kick off writing.

💡 Proof in Action: Behavioural science backs this up: studies on “implementation intentions” (specific pre-planned behaviours) show that having a ritual can double the likelihood of starting and completing tasks quickly.

✅ How to Apply It:

Pick one ritual that signals “go time” for you—like writing out three priorities or tidying your desk for 2 minutes.
Stick to it daily until it becomes automatic.

Mantra: Start strong, finish faster.

The Takeaway

If you want people to marvel at your speed, don’t focus on rushing through your work. Instead, build systems that reduce friction, train your brain to think faster, and prioritise momentum over perfection.

Here’s my challenge for you: try one of these strategies this week. Play a strategy game after work, batch your tasks, or experiment with a fast-start ritual. Then watch what happens.

I’d love to know—what helps you work faster? Hit reply and share your tips. Who knows—you might inspire the next big idea in our community.

A Better LinkedIn Pic (Science Backed!)

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 05:00:00 +0000

So my wife & mum always tell me “smile properly” when taking photos.

However, it wasn’t until I looked into the work of someone who studies body language for a living (Vanessa Van Edwards, the expert behind Science of People) that I realised there was so much to a good photo and smile.

A bad profile photo can make you seen untrustworthy, unfriendly and less approachable.

I found out there’s literally a science to crafting a more welcoming and component profile photo. So here’s a summary of everything I learned so you can apply it to your own profile photo.

Also spoiler alert but I actually think my photo is so much better now!

1. It’s All in the Face: Show Approachability

Vanessa Van Edwards emphasises the importance of sending the right cues. Many professionals unknowingly mute their expressions, striving for a “stoic” or unreadable look. But here’s the catch: this signals danger zone cues, making you seem unapproachable.

Instead, aim for a balance of warmth and competence:

Warmth: Use a genuine smile. The muscles around your eyes should activate (think of the classic “Duchenne smile”) because people can spot a fake one a mile away.
Competence: Keep your posture upright, with shoulders relaxed and your head level. This communicates confidence without veering into arrogance.

💡 Pro Tip: Practice your smile in the mirror. Make sure it reaches your eyes and doesn’t look forced.

You can see a huge difference between the fake and genuine smile

2. Pay Attention to Micro-Expressions

Did you know your “resting face” could be sabotaging your chances? In her studies, Van Edwards explains how subtle cues, like a downward-turning mouth or furrowed brows, can signal sadness, anger, or fear—even if you feel perfectly fine.

A one-sided smile, or an asymmetrical smile, often conveys a micro-expression of contempt or disapproval, even if unintentionally. It can make the individual appear smug, sarcastic, or unapproachable, which is why it’s best avoided in professional profile photos where trust and likability are key.

To counteract this:

Relax your face before the photo and think of a genuinely happy moment.
Avoid showing the whites above your pupils—this can make you appear anxious.

3. Eye Contact: Build Trust in an Instant

Eye contact creates an immediate sense of connection and trust. Your eyes should be looking directly at the camera to mimic real-life eye contact.

💡 Avoid: Looking slightly away or down, as this can unintentionally convey insecurity or distraction.

4. Leverage Body Language (Yes, Even in a Headshot)

While your face is the star, don’t forget the supporting cast:

Slightly lean toward the camera. Research shows that a subtle lean conveys engagement and openness.
Keep your shoulders relaxed but squared—this adds a touch of authority.

5. The Power of Context and Color

Van Edwards also highlights the importance of setting. Choose a neutral background or one that subtly complements your industry. For example, a tech professional might use a clean, modern background, while a creative designer could add a hint of texture or colour.

As for clothing, stick with solid colours that contrast well with your background. Blue and gray tones tend to evoke trust and professionalism, while a pop of colour (like a red tie or scarf) can signal energy and confidence.

Quick Recap: Your LinkedIn Photo Checklist

Expression: Genuine smile, relaxed and approachable.
Eyes: Direct, warm eye contact.
Posture: Confident yet open, with shoulders relaxed.
Background & Outfit: Clean, professional, and industry-appropriate.
Lean: A subtle forward tilt to show engagement.

Your LinkedIn photo is often your first impression, so why not make it a great one? A little science-backed strategy can go a long way in showcasing the confident, likable, and competent professional you are.

Until next time,

Ajay

What the heck does a CEO even do?

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 05:30:00 +0000

Happy New Year!

I hope all you have an amazing new year - this is the perfect opportunity to make some changes and really make a difference. I have some amazing things planned for 2025 - to help everyone here become the best versions of themselves in the context of work.

One quick favour! Please forward this to a friend who could use our help in 2025. They can just click this subscribe button to join this newsletter for free. From the bottom of my heart - thank you for being a subscriber and supporting us.

Now let’s talk about CEOs.

Beyond building my own startups and being a CEO, I’ve had the privilege of mentoring and working with over 100 companies and founders.

One day, a friend asked me, “What am I even meant to do as the CEO?” I sent a long, rambling WhatsApp message in response—but I figured it was worth writing down properly before I forget!

So here it is, for tens of thousands of you to see. Even if you’re not a CEO (and might never be), understanding the role can give you valuable insight into how your ultimate boss should operate. Also understanding what their role is will make you all the more impressive to them.

This advice is geared toward teams of up to 100-200 people—once a company grows beyond that, things may shift, and I haven’t yet hit that stage myself.

The Core Responsibilities of a CEO

Capital Allocator & Raiser

One of the CEO’s biggest responsibilities (often shared with the CFO) is ensuring the business has enough money to operate—and that it’s being deployed in the right way.

Think of a career progression like this:

Product Manager → People Manager → Money Manager

At first, your focus is on the product or service itself.
Then, you shift to managing a team to deliver that product or service.
Eventually, your role revolves around managing the company’s money—allocating resources, setting budgets, and making decisions that maximize ROI.

This skill becomes critical as a CEO, alongside the ability to raise capital through debt, equity, or other financial tools to keep the business moving forward.

Growth & Business Development

CEOs often play a hands-on role in driving growth. This can take many forms:

Sales & Marketing: Jumping into revenue-generating activities.
Partnerships: Building relationships to expand the company’s reach.
Mergers & Acquisitions: Spotting opportunities to acquire companies or merge with others to scale faster.

Growth is the lifeblood of any business, and as the CEO, it’s on you to identify and pursue the most strategic opportunities.

Hiring, Managing, Coaching, and Teaching the Team

You can’t do it all yourself—your success as a CEO depends on the people you hire.

Attracting, hiring, and retaining top-tier talent is one of your most important responsibilities. The actual work gets done by your team, so your job is to bring in amazing people and give them the environment they need to succeed.

Once your team grows, you may not be able to coach and manage everyone directly. That’s where leadership through vision, values, and high-level directives comes in. By setting clear expectations and building a strong culture, you can guide the organisation even when you’re not involved in the day-to-day.

Hold the Team Accountable

As the CEO, you’re the ultimate accountability partner.

Your role is to ensure the team stays aligned with the company’s goals, meets its targets, and delivers results. This involves setting measurable objectives, following up consistently, and stepping in when things veer off course.

It’s not just about holding others accountable—it’s about creating an environment where everyone holds themselves accountable to the mission.

Leadership and Team Operations

A good CEO ensures the organisation runs smoothly. That means thinking through:

Operational efficiency: Are processes streamlined and effective?
Conflict resolution: Are team dynamics healthy?
Decision-making frameworks: Is the company making decisions quickly and confidently?

Leadership is about enabling your team to do their best work while navigating the inevitable challenges that come with growth.

Vision & Strategy

The CEO is the North Star of the company. You’re responsible for defining where the business is going and how it’s going to get there.

This means answering big-picture questions like:

What’s our mission?
What’s our competitive advantage?
Where do we want to be in 1, 5, or 10 years?

A clear vision aligns the team and gives everyone a shared sense of purpose.

Your Special Skill

Every CEO has a unique superpower—something they’re better at than almost anyone else.

It could be sales, product design, fundraising, or even storytelling. Whatever it is, lean into it. While your role is to oversee everything, your special skill will often be the key to driving disproportionate results.

Use it to your advantage, but don’t get so caught up in it that you neglect the other parts of the role.

In Summary

Being a CEO isn’t about doing everything—it’s about doing the right things. From managing money to setting strategy, hiring great people, and driving growth, your role is to steer the ship and keep it moving in the right direction.

Even if you’re not a CEO, understanding these principles can make you more effective in your career—and give you insight into how to work better with the one at the top.

Until next time,

Ajay

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Lazy Man's Guide to Productivity

Wed, 25 Dec 2024 05:30:00 +0000

Learn AI in 5 minutes a day

So here’s the thing.

People often assume I’m incredibly busy, commenting on my packed schedule or thanking me for taking time out of my "hectic" day. The truth? I’m lazy. Fiercely protective of my time.

I’m not afraid to say "no" because I value having space for myself—and that’s okay.

Sure, there are days I go overboard, working late into the night. But that’s driven by how I feel, not some relentless productivity grind.

Productivity vs. Effectiveness

Let’s break down productivity for a second. By definition:

If output is work done, then all those strategies like time-blocking and to-do lists make sense. They help us optimise time spent.

But here’s the question: does productivity even matter?

What I care about more is effectiveness—how much closer I’m getting to my goals based on the work I put in.

I’d rather spend 1 hour on meaningful work than waste 12 hours on busy work that feels productive but moves the needle zero inches.

The problem? People are addicted to momentum. It feels great to cross things off a list, even if those tasks aren’t strategically important. It’s a psychological trick.

For instance, you might start your day by checking emails. Feels good, right? But is it the best way to spend your limited energy? Probably not.

How I Stay Effective

Here’s what works for me:

1. Create a Simple Task Funnel

Life throws tasks at you constantly—emails, Slack messages, WhatsApp pings. If your system for tracking them is clunky, it’ll fall apart.

I keep mine simple and versatile:

Saved messages in Slack and starred emails flow automatically into my to-do list app via automation.
WhatsApp tasks? They land in Apple Notes, which I review daily and transfer to my to-do list.

It’s not fancy, but it works. And that’s the point: use whatever system you’ll stick to.

2. Spend Time on Task Selection

Doing work feels good, but choosing the right work feels better.

I constantly ask my team (and myself):
“What’s the highest-leverage thing you could be doing right now?”

Take a few extra minutes to prioritise. Avoid busy work. Focus on what matters most.

3. Work with Your Psychology

You know yourself better than any productivity guru. Despite me saying you should be effective, sometimes being effective includes working with your psyche to build momentum or energy for yourself.

Maybe you thrive by tackling quick, easy wins to build momentum.
Or maybe you prefer starting with the hardest task first to feel unstoppable.

There’s no “one right way.” Personally, I lean into easy wins to get rolling—even if some influencers might scoff. This in turn makes me more effective by allowing me to be in the right space to tackle the highest leverage task.

4. Master the 2-Minute Rule

If something takes less than 2 minutes to complete, do it immediately.

The mental energy spent writing it down for later equals the energy to just get it done.

For example, if I’m in a meeting and someone needs an intro, I send it on the spot. Done.

But keep it strict—tasks over 2 minutes? Add them to your system.

5. Stop Multitasking

Here’s the truth: no one can multitask.

What we call multitasking is actually context-switching—rapidly shifting focus between tasks. And it’s exhausting.

Every switch drains energy. That’s why 30 minutes of “multitasking” can leave you feeling wiped.

Do yourself a favour: stop. Focus on one thing at a time.

6. Embrace Unfinished Projects

This one’s controversial, but hear me out: I keep a garage of unfinished projects.

I rush to 80% completion, then leave the final tweaks for later. Here’s why:

It removes the pressure to make things perfect.
On low-energy days, I can finish something I’ve already started instead of struggling to begin from scratch.

This balance lets me work with how I feel in the moment.

7. Keep It Simple

Stop obsessing over optimising every second of your life. Forget tracking every minute. Who cares?

Instead, focus on being effective. Pick the right tasks, and let the rest slide.

The most successful people aren’t squeezing every drop out of their time. They’re just deliberate about where they invest it. That’s why they look like they’re moving 100x faster than everyone else.

Good Luck

Channel your inner lazy person. Work smart, not hard.

Until next time,
Ajay

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Choosing the 'Perfect' Career

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 05:00:00 +0000

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Having Too Many Options

Ever found yourself scrolling through LinkedIn at 11pm, convinced that every person on your feed has a cooler job than you?

Maybe you’re thinking, “I should apply for that role at that hot startup,” or “Maybe I should move to a different city,” or “Wait, the company that makes artisanal dog treats is hiring!”

Suddenly, you’re not just comparing apples to oranges—you’re comparing apples to ethically sourced, lavender-infused peaches with free lunch and unlimited PTO.

We live in a world where every day can feel like a career buffet.

It sounds great, but it’s also a trap. Research on “choice overload” shows that when we face too many options, we’re more likely to feel stressed and less satisfied with whatever we end up choosing. In other words, if you’re drowning in a sea of “maybe this… or that… or that other thing,” your happiness will pay the price.

This graph is from tapandesai.com

As much as I want to sound like a wise sage here, I constantly compare myself to others and their work. “Damn I should have started that” or “I wish I had that job, it would have paid me way more than starting my own company”.

It’s something I’m learning to improve on and hopefully by writing this out it can help the both of us.

Back in the day, your parents might’ve had a few local gigs to choose from and, believe it or not, they were often happier at work.

Not because they “settled,” but because they didn’t have a thousand other job descriptions whispering, “Pssst, I might be better.”

They picked something and focused on growing in it, rather than chasing every shiny opportunity. Social media has made this harder and harder.

On the other hand…

Most of you fall into another bucket where you have done one degree and never considered careers outside of that. Perhaps you studied mechanical engineering and now despite the lack of jobs, you’re stuck within this career you decided for yourself at 17.

You need to ensure that you’re in the middl which is where the maximum satisfaction occurs. Make sure you’re evaluating a decent pool of job opportunities but not overloading yourself with directions.

At the end of the day, happiness at work isn’t about having all the options—or even picking the ‘right’ one. A good one is fine and just improving in it everyday.

Let the world keep spinning with its infinite career paths; you’ll be too busy growing where you are to notice.

Until next time,

Ajay

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