I normally like to do at least a monthly update, if for no other reason than just to keep a record of what I’ve been up to for my own sanity when I look back in life. And if it’s of interest to anybody else, then great. But this time I have lagged behind, and I’m merging two months’ update into one. This was a period of time where everything changed completely. And I’m still wrapping my head around it. Somehow I still got a lot done, despite so many interruptions, appointments, disruptions, unexpected changes and pivots. So I am proud of myself for that, and what I’ve managed to achieve.
Juggling Act: Business Projects in Motion
These past two months were a whirlwind, but I managed to keep a lot of plates spinning, even as life took a sharp turn.
- Anxy Aid Packaging Rebrand: I helped with the packaging rebrand of this all-natural sleep supplement. We’re talking updated designs, getting it Amazon-ready, and prepping it to compete on retail shelves. The goal? A stronger presence in a crowded market. Seeing the box design come to life for Amazon fulfillment was a real win!
- 3D Animation Adventures: Finally wrapped up a 3D animation project that had been lingering since December! Delivered high-res images for a client’s campaign. We also kicked off another animation project, converting CAD files and searching for the perfect voice talent. It’s a project that could look pretty darn good, even if client feedback can be a slight hurdle.
- DVD Cover Artwork: This project’s been a slow burn due to licensing snags, but we’re finally seeing progress on the DVD cover artwork and once disc authoring is complete, DVD replication is in the works.
“In what areas of your business (or life!) could AI be your 'productivity multiplier'?”
Empire Base: Fueling My Passion
One of my biggest personal passions is Empire Base. I’ve been diving deep into content research, crafting blog posts and resources that I believe will genuinely help my subscribers. I’m actually really enjoying creating this content, which is something I hadn’t really had a lot of love for, but due to new processes I have in place now, and technologies, it’s become actually really fun. I’ve also completed multiple preparations of Empire Base onboarding email sequences, so when customers sign up to certain services, they receive multiple emails that follow on from another to help guide that customer as to what happens next, what they should do, and all of that is now in place, including some that are reminders for annual service renewals and upgrades and options. I’m particularly proud of the productivity boost these new systems have given me.
AI: My Productivity Multiplier
I’m using AI wisely as a tool, and I’m really loving how I can multiply myself and create far stronger, better results and outcomes, outputs, than I could do alone. I even used my AI assistant (and coach, that I set up) to brainstorm a 6-12 month social media content calendar for my personal media platforms. The potential for in-depth content is huge, and the best part? Once I get it scheduled, it’s hands-off!
"How can building genuine human connections lead to bigger business wins?"
Partnerships & A Major Win
I’ve been developing a plan for system replacements behind the scenes for partners at bloodtest.co.uk, aiming to improve their CRM, customer support, and even blood test result delivery – while doing so at reduced set up and operational costs. Streamlining this will help serve more people in the UK.
Plus, I tackled US tax filings for Pollux Technologies, navigating a new set of deadlines and regulations. It’s a learning curve, but it sets me up for future US ventures that I have planned.
Advertising Agency Web Work: After years of relationship building, I’m thrilled to be entrusted with significant web projects for a key advertising agency client. This is a huge win, and a testament to the power of human connection in business. I’m excited to prove what we can do!
"What unexpected challenges have ultimately shaped you for the better?"
Then, Tiny Feet Arrived
February brought baby scans, midwife visits, and then, on the 17th, everything changed. A 2 AM hospital trip, a long labor, and ultimately, a C-section on 19th. My wife was incredibly strong and graceful throughout the entire labor process, even without painkillers.
The hospital team was outstanding, and within 20 minutes, we had a son. Two weeks early! Suddenly, we were parents, catching up fast. The first few days in the hospital were a blur of interruptions, but stepping into the role of dad was a powerful moment. As someone who’s never been particularly fond of babies, I was surprised by the overwhelming urge to protect and care for this tiny human. It hit me then: I was a father. This little tiny life needed us, and we were all aboard.
The aftercare we received has been amazing, something that seems to be big in the UK county we live in. My parents came down to meet baby boy when he was three weeks old, and we enjoyed some good family time and getting for them to meet him and him to meet his grandparents. It was special, a really, really good…. unique experience, which, in a sense, I will only have once. So, really grateful to have been able to go through that experience and take new memories and have my mum, who loves babies, to connect with this little tiny being.
It’s been a crazy couple of months, but progress is good, and challenges shape us.
So until my next update, I hope you all look at the things going on in your life and are grateful for them and understand everything is a learning experience, whether it’s good, bad, or simply challenging. I’d love to hear what you’ve been up to and how you’ve overcome any sticking points, and made any pivots and adaptations in life!
