5 Game-Changing Tools I Wish I Knew About Sooner

When you're just starting out, the internet can feel like a wild jungle of information. Every guru has a different must-have tool, and before you know it, you've signed up for a dozen platforms, spent hours testing them, and still feel overwhelmed.

Being from the Global South, I’ve learned that access isn’t always equal. Some platforms don’t support my country, others require pricey workarounds, and let’s be real—no one wants to waste money on something that doesn’t work for them.

So, after months (okay, maybe years) of trial and error, I’ve finally found five tools I wish I had from day one. Here’s what’s making my life easier:

For Productivity & Note-Taking → Notion

That’s it. Notion is the one. It’s free, intuitive, and has endless customization options. Need something specific? Their template marketplace is a goldmine. While they offer an AI add-on, the free version is more than enough to stay organized and productive.

For Courses → Teachable

I chose Teachable because it allows me to accept payments in my country without jumping through hoops. Many platforms require non-US entrepreneurs to incorporate in the US (hello, $500 setup fees 😩)—which, as a beginner, isn’t a smart investment just yet. Teachable removes that barrier, making it a winner in my books.

For Design → Canva

As someone with a design background, I refuse to let Adobe hold me hostage. Until my business generates enough to justify the cost, I’m sticking with Canva—which has a solid free version and a Pro plan that you can cancel anytime (unlike some other platforms 👀).

For Editing → CapCut

For now, CapCut is my go-to for video editing. It’s beginner-friendly but still has powerful features. Once I master the basics, I plan to level up to DaVinci Resolve—but until then, CapCut does the job without the learning curve.

For My Link in Bio → My Newsletter

I’ve tested Linktree, Beacons, and a dozen other options, but I’ve decided to keep things simple: my newsletter is my main link. Since my goal is to build a community and share my journey, it only makes sense to drive people directly to where the real conversations happen.

Bonus: Free Stock Image Sites

Since my early days as a designer, I’ve relied on (these are links btw):
Pexels
Unsplash
Kaboompics
These platforms offer high-quality stock images for free—a lifesaver when you need great visuals without spending a dime.

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Talk soon,
C

🎧 On Repeat: Mel Robbins Podcasts
📖 Currently Reading: Becoming Supernatural by Dr. Joe Dispenza
🛍️ In My Cart: Phytoceutics - Bettergut Probiotics