What Steph Loves This Month – August 2024
Ah, August! The month when the British weather plays its favorite game of sun and rain roulette. While dodging raindrops, I’ve found a few gems that have kept me inspired, entertained, and ever so slightly obsessed. Here’s a curated list of what I’ve been loving this month – from business hacks to a few wellness wonders.
1. App Love: Notion AI
Forget your old-school notebooks and diaries; Notion AI is my new virtual assistant, mind-mapper, and life-organizer. It’s like having a personal assistant who’s never late, never complains, and always knows where you left that vital bit of information. I’ve been using it to manage everything from content calendars to personal to-do lists, and the AI-powered suggestions make even mundane task management feel a bit like magic.
Link: Notion AI
2. Binge-Worthy Podcast: “Cautionary Tales” with Tim Harford
If you love a good story that packs a punch of insight, this is the podcast for you. Each episode dives into a cautionary tale from history or the business world, showing us where things went right… or catastrophically wrong. It’s a masterclass in storytelling with a side of business wisdom. Perfect for those morning commutes or an afternoon escape.
Link: Cautionary Tales Podcast
3. Tool for Focus: Brain.fm
Ever find yourself in a productivity slump? Same. Brain.fm is designed to help you get into the zone by using AI-generated music specifically composed to enhance focus, relaxation, or sleep. I’ve been using their focus tracks while writing and, honestly, it’s like coffee for your ears.
Link: Brain.fm
4. Currently Reading: “Hidden Genius” by Polina Marinova Pompliano
A fascinating dive into the minds of the world’s top thinkers, doers, and disruptors. Polina has gathered insights from some of the brightest minds across industries, distilling them into practical lessons on creativity, resilience, and reinvention. A must-read for anyone looking to inject a bit more “genius” into their daily grind.
Link: Hidden Genius by Polina Marinova Pompliano
5. Sneaker Innovation: Allbirds Tree Dasher 2
With sustainability being a key passion, I had to give a nod to Allbirds’ new release. The Tree Dasher 2 isn’t just a running shoe; it’s a statement of intent. Made with natural materials like eucalyptus fibre and castor bean oil, these shoes are as kind to your feet as they are to the planet. Bonus points for comfort – it’s like walking on ethically-produced clouds.
Link: Allbirds Tree Dasher 2
6. Mindfulness on-the-go: Ten Percent Happier App
Mindfulness can sometimes feel like another item on a never-ending to-do list, but Ten Percent Happier makes it feel like a treat. With bite-sized meditation sessions and practical mindfulness tips, it’s designed for those who think they’re “too busy to meditate.” Spoiler: You’re not.
Link: Ten Percent Happier App
7. Workspace Wellness: Fluidstance Balance Board
Sitting is the new smoking, they say, but standing all day isn’t much better. Enter the Fluidstance Balance Board – a fun, dynamic way to stay active while standing at your desk. It’s been an unexpected source of micro-exercise that keeps me alert and slightly more coordinated than usual.
Link: Fluidstance Balance Board
8. Inspiration Station: “Minimalism” Documentary on Netflix
I’ve always been fascinated by the idea of less is more, and this documentary digs deep into the benefits of simplifying life. It’s not about deprivation but focusing on what truly matters. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by ‘stuff,’ give it a watch. Who knows, you might be inspired to Marie Kondo your digital life too.
Link: Minimalism on Netflix
9. Current Obsession: Oroeco App
A fabulous app for those wanting to live more sustainably, Oroeco tracks your carbon footprint based on your spending habits and provides practical tips to reduce your impact. I’ve found it eye-opening to see where my biggest carbon sins lie and surprisingly addictive trying to lower them. It’s like a game but for saving the planet.
Link: Oroeco
10. Favourite New Find: “Mindset” by Carol Dweck (Audiobook)
This isn’t just a book; it’s a mind-altering experience. The audiobook version of Carol Dweck’s classic ‘Mindset’ offers a fresh take on success and failure, which I found particularly useful during long drives. It’s a reminder that with the right mindset, every failure is just another stepping stone to success.
Link: Mindset by Carol Dweck (Audiobook)
That’s my roundup for August! Here’s to finding inspiration in the unexpected, delight in the everyday, and making every moment count – rain or shine. If you’ve got something amazing that you think I’d love, don’t be shy – drop me a line!
(Stay curious, stay fabulous!)