The shortcut that changed how I search forever

This year, I made a promise to myself:

Stop downloading shiny new apps.
Start mastering the tools I already use.

But... let me be real with you.

I still fall for it:
The hype. The promise. The dopamine hit of a new tool launch.

Every week, some shiny new AI thing lights up my inbox:

• “Replaces your entire team!”

• “Turn ideas into startups while you sleep!”

• “Powered by GPT-4o, unicorns, and vibes.”

I'm such a sucker for innovation.

And I should know better.

I know the answer isn’t in the next tool.
Or the next Chrome extension.
Or the next plugin.

But still... I chase.
Because chasing feels easier than doing the hard work.

Sticking to my toolbox has been my top productivity goal of 2025.
It’s been hard.
But also? Kind of life-changing.

I’ve finally mastered Notion.
I know when to reach for Claude.
I’ve built a mental map of what LLMs are actually good at. And what they're not.

And there’s one tool that’s earned a permanent spot in my toolbox:

Perplexity AI

Specifically, the Mac app and one small feature that I absolutely love:

🎙️ Dictation Search
Just hit Cmd + Shift + D, speak your question, hit Enter. That’s it.

I know it sounds basic, but it’s game-changing when you’re in flow and want an answer fast without typing.

Here’s me asking about India’s population growth.

Why I Use Perplexity

Perplexity tells you where it got its answers from.

You get clean, sourced responses: real links to research papers, studies, Reddit threads, interviews.

If your work involves research of any kind: writing? strategy? content creation? market analysis?

This is gold.

A Word of Caution

Just because something feels fast doesn't mean you need more of it.

We’re already drowning in content.

Use wisely! The real win?

Pick one tool. Master it. Use it to achieve your goals.

Thoughts? Just hit reply and share what’s on your mind.
I read every message.

See you next week,
George