Section 1.1: Brain.fm

One app that has caught my attention is Brain.fm. It's been touted as offering "the world's most advanced background music" aimed at enhancing relaxation, sleep, or focus. I enjoy using music to help me concentrate, typically through curated playlists on Spotify. However, Brain.fm's creators argue that most music is designed to capture our attention, making it harder to stay focused. In contrast, their app uses neuroscience to produce music that guides your mind without distractions.

Currently, I'm in the middle of a brief three-day trial. While I do find it easier to concentrate with this music, I’m uncertain whether it offers enough value to justify the annual fee of £42.99.

Section 1.2: ClickUp

As I expand my business, I recognize the need for a robust project management tool. I've experimented with several options, including Monday.com and Asana, but ClickUp stands out due to its ability to create relational databases. For instance, I can connect clients with partners, enabling me to see which partners I’ve introduced to a specific client instantly.

However, I hesitate to fully commit to ClickUp because its mobile applications are quite underwhelming. They handle existing information well but struggle with new data entry. Additionally, I wish to integrate callback URLs for linking tasks with my project pages in Obsidian, but unfortunately, ClickUp's standard link field doesn’t support this.

Section 1.3: Game Dev Tycoon

For moments when work becomes overwhelming, I turn to mobile games, and Game Dev Tycoon is one of my favorites. Affordable to download, free from ads or subscriptions, and with engaging gameplay, it allows you to run your own game development company starting in the 1980s. As you create games, you can build a fanbase, expand your office, and hire development teams for increasingly complex projects.

Game Dev Tycoon is fantastic for mobile play, whether you have a few minutes or a whole afternoon to unwind.

Section 1.4: Notion

Following my exploration of ClickUp, I've also revisited Notion, a collaboration tool highly recommended by several colleagues. Although I’ve used it before, it never resonated with me. I plan to give it another earnest try before making a final decision.

Section 1.5: Numbers

Transitioning to a new business has prompted me to explore tools I previously overlooked, such as Numbers. I wanted a reliable spreadsheet solution for backing up my financial data without subscribing to Microsoft Office, and Apple's Numbers fits the bill nicely.

I’m not an advanced spreadsheet user, but I needed basic functionalities for revenue forecasting and tax calculations. I found Numbers easy to use, with a user-friendly approach that I prefer over Excel.

Section 1.6: QuickBooks

Setting up a new business necessitates reliable bookkeeping software. I've tried various options, including Xero and Freshbooks, but I’m leaning towards QuickBooks due to its pricing and features.

The mobile app is decent, though it pales in comparison to the web experience. I primarily downloaded it to capture receipts for expenses, which it does seamlessly. Core functions like invoicing and expense approval are manageable, but the app feels more suited for use on a laptop.

Section 1.7: Thread

Since the pandemic, I've been using online clothing services, initially starting with StitchUp. However, I've found their selections less relevant lately, so I've begun exploring alternatives. Thread stands out by offering clothing options based on my preferences without the commitment of subscription boxes.

I can choose items they recommend directly from their website, often at better prices than in stores. Their flexible return policy makes it easy to send back items if needed.

Section 1.8: Tweetbot

I've had a tumultuous relationship with Twitter, finding little value in the content. As I aim to expand my business presence on the platform, I decided to streamline my Twitter usage. Unfortunately, upon returning, I discovered my feed cluttered with suggested content.

A potential solution is Tweetbot, a third-party app that filters out Twitter's unwanted posts. Its elegant design and filtering capabilities make it a great alternative. The free version allows me to view tweets, while actions such as replies and DMs require a paid subscription, which seems worthwhile to maintain a tidy feed.