Author name: jscreative

How to Build a Personal Knowledge System That Fuels Your Creativity

Para leer este artículo en español, haga clic aquí. ¡Gracias a Salvador Lorca 📚 ⭕️ y Martina López!

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Ever feel like your mind is a buzzing hive of ideas, insights, and “aha!” moments, but when you need them most, they’re nowhere to be found? You’re not alone. For multi-passionates, this mental chaos can feel like both a blessing and a curse. Ideas come easily, but managing them? That’s another story.

Enter personal knowledge management (PKM): a way to organize your thoughts, creativity, and insights so you can use them when it matters most.

But here’s the thing—there’s no one-size-fits-all system. Your PKM should reflect your curious, multi-passionate mind. Let’s explore five powerful ideas you can blend to create a knowledge system that supports not just what you know—but what you create.


1. Tiago Forte’s C.O.D.E. Method: The Power of Actionable Notes

Tiago Forte, creator of Building a Second Brain, argues that a knowledge system isn’t about hoarding information; it’s about making it useful. His C.O.D.E. framework (Capture, Organize, Distill, Express) breaks this down:

  • Capture the ideas and insights that spark your interest. A sticky note, a voice memo, or an app like Notion—whatever works.
  • Organize them so you can find them later. Categories, tags, or even a simple “Projects” list will do.
  • Distill your notes into their essential meaning. Ask: What’s the big takeaway here?
  • Express your ideas by using them in your work. Share them in a blog, design a product, or test them out in conversation.

The magic lies in simplicity. You’re not saving everything—just what sparks curiosity or solves a problem. The goal? To create a system that serves your life, not one you’re constantly “fixing.”

Reflection Prompt: What’s one way you could make your notes easier to find or use?


2. Harold Jarche’s Seek-Sense-Share Method: Connecting the Dots

Harold Jarche adds another layer with his Seek-Sense-Share model, designed for turning information into wisdom:

  • Seek: Follow your curiosity. Explore books, podcasts, conversations, or rabbit holes that fascinate you.
  • Sense: Make meaning from what you’ve found. Reflect, journal, or connect ideas in new ways.
  • Share: Share what you’ve learned with others—blog posts, discussions, or even casual chats.

The beauty of this approach? It’s cyclical. Sharing leads to feedback, which sparks new seeking, and the process repeats. Think of it as a way to refine your ideas over time while staying in motion.

Reflection Prompt: When was the last time you shared an idea and learned something unexpected in return?

3. Ness Labs’ Curiosity-First Approach: Let Your Interests Lead

Ness Labs takes PKM further by leaning into curiosity as the engine of learning. Instead of rigidly collecting or organizing knowledge, they suggest embracing an iterative, playful process:

  • Follow the questions that excite you. What do you really want to know?
  • Give yourself permission to explore without judgment. The more you let curiosity guide you, the more organic your system will feel.
  • Build “knowledge gardens,” not rigid silos. This mindset shifts from collecting static facts to cultivating evolving insights.

When you treat your PKM system as a living experiment, it becomes less about perfection and more about creative growth.

Reflection Prompt: What’s one question you’re curious about right now? How could you explore it today?


4. Austin Kleon’s “Steal Like an Artist”: Remix, Don’t Reinvent

Austin Kleon’s advice reminds us that creativity isn’t about starting from scratch—it’s about remixing what already exists. As he says, “You are a mashup of what you let into your life.”

  • Borrow ideas shamelessly. A blog post, a doodle, a conversation—treat them as creative ingredients.
  • Add your perspective. What’s your unique take? How can you connect this idea to something else?
  • Keep a swipe file. This could be a digital folder, a notebook, or even a Pinterest board filled with things that inspire you.

The key is to combine these elements into something uniquely yours. Your knowledge system isn’t just a repository; it’s a creative playground.

Reflection Prompt: What’s one idea you’ve been inspired by recently? How could you add your own spin to it?


5. Jay Acunzo’s Body of Work: Create for Resonance, Not Just Output

Jay Acunzo challenges us to move beyond “just making things” and focus on building a body of work—a collection of creations that tells a larger story.

The key is resonance: Your work should matter to both you and your ideal audience. That starts with clarity:

  • Know your audience: Who are they? What questions are they asking? What sparks their curiosity? When you truly understand your audience, your work naturally becomes more relevant and impactful.
  • Filter your ideas: Instead of trying to do it all, ask: Does this align with my unique perspective and values? Will this make someone’s life better?
  • Play the long game: Every blog post, product, or shared idea is a dot on a larger map. Over time, those dots connect, forming a body of work that reflects your growth and the value you bring to others.

Acunzo’s approach reminds us that creating isn’t just about output—it’s about building trust, connection, and a legacy that feels authentic.

Reflection Prompt: What’s one thing you could create today that feels true to you and meaningful to your audience?

Pulling It All Together

A personal knowledge system isn’t just a tool for organizing ideas—it’s a foundation for something bigger: the work you’ll leave behind.

When you combine these approaches—C.O.D.E., Seek-Sense-Share, curiosity, remixing, and building a body of work—you’re not just managing knowledge. You’re creating a system that fuels your creativity, amplifies your voice, and connects with others in meaningful ways.

Whether you’re writing, designing, or simply exploring, your PKM isn’t just about collecting ideas. It’s about using them to tell your story and resonate with your audience.

Final Reflection: What story do you want your body of work to tell? How can your knowledge system support that vision?

Start small, stay curious, and let your creativity guide the way. The dots will connect as you go.


(This post was originally shared on Substack)

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Get the Gist: A Book Summary of “The Introvert Entrepreneur” by Beth L. Buelow

Get the Gist: A Book Summary of "The Introvert Entrepreneur" by Beth L. Buelow | jscreative.ca

This post may contain affiliate links which means I could receive a commission if you purchase something using my link, at no extra cost to you. See Terms for more details.

The book, “The Introvert Entrepreneur” by Beth L. Buelow, is a guide for introverts who wish to start their own businesses. The book begins by explaining the characteristics of introverts and how they differ from extroverts in terms of their communication, social skills, and energy levels.

Buelow then provides practical tips and strategies for introverts to overcome the challenges they may face when it comes to networking, marketing, and promoting their businesses. She emphasizes the importance of finding one’s own style of networking and building relationships instead of trying to conform to the extroverted norm.

The author also discusses the benefits of introverts’ strengths such as their ability to listen, analyze, and focus deeply. She encourages introverts to leverage these strengths to create unique and successful businesses.

Throughout the book, Buelow shares stories and insights from successful introverted entrepreneurs to illustrate her points. She also includes exercises and journal prompts to help readers identify their strengths, values, and goals.

Overall, “The Introvert Entrepreneur” is a valuable resource for introverts who are interested in entrepreneurship. It offers practical advice, inspiration, and guidance on how to start and grow a successful business while staying true to one’s introverted nature.


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Fuelling Your Personal Growth: 10 Must-Read Nonfiction Books for Success Seekers

Fuelling Your Personal Growth: 10 Must-Read Nonfiction Books for Success Seekers | jscreative.ca

Are you ready to supercharge your personal growth and unleash your full potential? Well, get ready to dive into the world of nonfiction books that will inspire, motivate, and empower you on your journey to success. From career advice to self-development, here are 10 must-read nonfiction books that will fuel your personal growth and help you conquer the world.

This post may contain affiliate links which means I could receive a commission if you purchase something using my link, at no extra cost to you. See Terms for more details.

  1. Lean In” by Sheryl Sandberg: This groundbreaking book by Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg encourages women to embrace their ambitions, challenge the status quo, and strive for leadership positions. It’s a powerful call to action that will inspire you to lean in and shatter glass ceilings.
  2. Becoming” by Michelle Obama: In this memoir, former First Lady Michelle Obama shares her journey from the South Side of Chicago to the White House. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience, authenticity, and the importance of finding your voice.
  3. You Are a Badass” by Jen Sincero: Prepare to unleash your inner badass with this witty and inspiring guide to personal transformation. Jen Sincero’s book will help you identify self-limiting beliefs, cultivate self-love, and embrace your awesomeness.
  4. Daring Greatly” by BrenĂ© Brown: Dive into the world of vulnerability and courage with BrenĂ© Brown’s transformative book. It explores the power of embracing vulnerability, daring to be authentic, and how vulnerability can lead to a more fulfilling and connected life.
  5. The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz: This spiritual guide offers four simple agreements to live by—be impeccable with your word, don’t take anything personally, don’t make assumptions, and always do your best. These agreements can help you create a life of love, joy, and personal freedom.
  6. Big Magic” by Elizabeth Gilbert: If you’re seeking inspiration and creativity, this book is a must-read. Elizabeth Gilbert, the author of “Eat Pray Love,” shares her insights on living a creative life and embracing curiosity, fearlessness, and the joy of creating.
  7. Grit” by Angela Duckworth: Discover the power of passion and perseverance with psychologist Angela Duckworth. In this book, she explores how resilience, determination, and a growth mindset can lead to extraordinary achievements.
  8. Presence” by Amy Cuddy: Unleash the power of body language and personal presence with Amy Cuddy’s research-backed book. It offers practical advice on how to project confidence, overcome self-doubt, and create a lasting impression.
  9. Originals” by Adam Grant: A  thought-provoking exploration of the power of non-conformity and creative thinking. Through captivating stories and insightful research, Grant inspires readers to challenge the status quo and embrace their unique ideas, encouraging Millennial women to make a positive impact by being original.
  10. Option B” by Sheryl Sandberg and Adam Grant: In this book, Sheryl Sandberg shares her personal journey of resilience and finding joy after the sudden loss of her husband. It’s a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, we can find strength, hope, and the courage to build a new life.

Grab a cozy blanket & a cup of your favorite beverage, and dive into these empowering nonfiction books. They will nourish your mind, ignite your passion, and fuel your personal growth as you strive for success. Happy reading and may you continue to shine brightly on your path to greatness!


LEAVE A COMMENT BELOW — How many of these books have you already read? Do you have any others you’d add to this list?


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Welcoming A.I: My Business Assistant

Have you ever had a brilliant idea, a burning desire to share something valuable, but then… crickets? That was me, for a long, long time. For years, the idea of consistently sharing my thoughts and insights on my blog felt like an uphill battle. I’d start something, get lost in a swirl of self-doubt, and then… nothing. Posts were sporadic, at best, and honestly, mostly nonexistent.

And you know, that’s just not how you build a business! It was frustrating, to say the least. Part of it, I’ve realized, is likely my executive function disorder, a facet of my ADHD. Getting started, especially with something that feels big and overwhelming, can be incredibly difficult. I also couldn’t afford to hire someone to help me craft my content, so I felt stuck in a loop.

Then, AI stepped onto the scene.

Like many, I was curious. I started playing around with it, and at first, I just took what it gave me. But it quickly became clear: it was… well, pretty terrible. And definitely not me. It lacked authenticity, warmth, and the unique perspective I wanted to share.

So, I shifted gears. Over the past two years, I’ve spent countless hours refining how I use AI, essentially training it to understand my brand voice. It’s been a fascinating process of going back and forth, tweaking, and refining until the output finally felt like my words, my tone, and my approach. It’s been a journey of discovery, really, about how to leverage a tool while maintaining my authentic self.

Today, I still use AI to help me write my content. It’s a key part of my process. But here’s the crucial part: I never just copy and paste. Every single post, every piece of content, goes through my hands. I make sure it’s exactly what I want to communicate, reflecting my true voice and message.

Honestly, I don’t want to rely on AI forever in the same way. So, in parallel, I’m actively practicing and refining my own writing style, building up that muscle. But for now, and for the sake of transparency, I wanted to share this part of my journey with you.

The truth is, using AI as my content assistant has been a game-changer. My business has grown significantly, and I’ve been able to share blog posts consistently, once a week, for over a year now! It’s allowed me to overcome that creative block and finally share the value I’ve always wanted to offer.

It’s about finding the tools that genuinely support your vision — and doing what works for you.

After all, what good are ideas if no one else ever gets to benefit from them?

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Discovering Your Top Strengths With the Clifton Strengths Assessment


Hey there! Today, we’re diving into something super cool that can totally level up your game: the Clifton Strengths Assessment. Seriously, it’s like unlocking your inner superhero.

Let’s break it down.

The Clifton Strengths Assessment is this cool thing made by the famous Gallup folks. Instead of focusing on what you’re not great at, it’s all about finding out what you rock at. Imagine a spotlight shining on your unique strengths and talents. With this info, you can craft a life that’s totally you and rock it like a pro.

Getting to Know Your Superpowers

Alright, so what’s this assessment all about? It’s a bunch of questions that help you figure out your natural skills and how your brain likes to work. Think about stuff like building relationships, coming up with smart plans, influencing others, and getting things done. After you finish, you’ll get a personalized report that shows off your top strengths.

Time to Embrace Your Awesomeness

Ready for the fun part? Once you see your results, it’s time to embrace those awesome superpowers of yours! Your strengths are like magical tools that only you have. They’re your secret sauce to success in anything you do. When you use these strengths, you’ll feel energized and unstoppable, no matter what you’re up to.

Rocking Your Strengths with Your Goals

Whether you’re aiming for a killer career, becoming your best self, or creating a totally amazing life, your strengths are your secret weapon. Use them to make smart choices that match up with what you’re amazing at. When your strengths team up with your goals, you’re basically unstoppable.

Levelling Up Your Strength Game

Here’s the cool thing: your strengths aren’t set in stone. You can totally make them even stronger! Once you know your top strengths, give them some love. Use them in all parts of your life – both personal and pro. And hey, surround yourself with people who have different strengths – they’ll help you grow even more.

Power of Teamwork

Last but not least, let’s talk about the power of your crew. Share your strengths with your pals and encourage them to do the same. Build a tribe of awesome peeps who get each other’s strengths and cheer them on. Together, you can achieve some seriously awesome stuff and lift each other up like true champs.

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So, are you ready to unlock your amazingness? Take the Clifton Strengths Assessment, embrace your strengths, and go crush those goals! You’ve got a treasure trove of talents waiting to be unleashed. Embrace your strengths, follow your passions, and let your awesomeness shine. The world is so ready for what you’ve got!


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Looking Inward: The Art of Self-Reflection and Its Benefits

Looking Inward: The Art of Self-Reflection and Its Benefits | jscreative.ca

Life can be a total whirlwind, right? Between all the stuff you gotta do, the expectations, and the never-ending to-do lists, have you ever just wanted a moment to hit pause, take a breath, and really connect with yourself? Well, guess what? You’re not alone in that feeling!

In this super fast world we live in, it’s so easy to get caught up in all the noise around us. We’re always chasing more achievements, more likes, more success. But let me tell you something, my awesome friends: real happiness isn’t in all that outside stuff. It’s deep within us.

And that’s where self-reflection comes in – it’s like having a heart-to-heart chat with your own soul. It helps you discover your dreams, your fears, your strengths – all that good stuff!

Why is self-reflection so cool?

Let me break it down for you:

  1. Getting Clarity: Life can get seriously chaotic, but self-reflection gives us this amazing gift called clarity. When you take time to understand your thoughts, feelings, and values, you’ll get to know the real you. You’ll figure out what you’re passionate about, your purpose, and where you wanna go in life.
  2. Boosting Self-Awareness: Self-reflection acts like a mirror. It shows us our actions, choices, and habits. It helps us see what’s holding us back and what’s pushing us forward. With better self-awareness, you can make choices that match your values and make you a better you.
  3. Mindfulness Magic: Self-reflection and mindfulness go together like peanut butter and jelly. When you take time to look within, you become aware of the present moment. You start appreciating the little things, finding joy in simple stuff, and feeling grateful every day.
  4. Becoming Stronger: Life throws curve-balls, but self-reflection helps us hit them out of the park! When things get tough, you tap into your inner strength. You learn from past experiences and get the courage to tackle obstacles head-on.
  5. Self-Love Boost: We’re all so busy, right? But self-reflection reminds us that self-care is important. It tells us to take a breather, show ourselves some love, and do things that make us happy.
  6. Connecting for Real: As you explore yourself, you’ll attract cool people who dig the real you. Self-reflection makes your relationships deeper. You connect on a whole new level, without pretending to be someone you’re not.

Ways to Dive Into Self-Reflection

  • Journaling: Grab a notebook and let your thoughts flow. Write about your dreams, challenges, and the things you’re grateful for. Let your feelings spill onto the pages – it’s like magic!
  • Meditation: Take a few minutes each day to chill out. Focus on your breath, let your thoughts float by, and find calm in the middle of the craziness.
  • Solo Adventures: Treat yourself! Explore a park, check out an art gallery, or hang at a cozy cafĂ©. Enjoy your own company and have fun!
  • Deep Talks with Friends: Have heart-to-heart chats with pals who get the self-reflection thing. Share your journey, your thoughts, and your discoveries. You’ll build a supportive squad that’s all about growth.

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So, my fellow explorer, embrace the quiet moments, listen to your heart, and let your true self shine. Remember, the best love story you’ll ever have is the one you create with yourself. You got this!


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Unlocking the Benefits of Reading: How it Enhances Your Quality of Life

Hey there! In this fast-paced world full of distractions, reading is like a sanctuary for our minds and souls. Let’s explore the wonderful world of books together and see how they can benefit us.

How Reading Enhances Your Quality of Life

Escaping into Other Worlds

Reading takes us to different places, introduces us to interesting characters, and lets us be part of exciting stories. It’s like escaping reality for a while and giving our minds a break.

Igniting the Spark of Creativity

Books also boost our creativity and imagination. When we read, we can imagine amazing things and come up with new ideas. It encourages us to think creatively and find innovative solutions in our lives.

Expanding the Boundaries of Knowledge

Moreover, reading opens up a whole world of knowledge. Whether it’s fiction or nonfiction, every page has something to teach us. It broadens our horizons, challenges our thinking, and encourages us to keep learning throughout life.

Nurturing Empathy and Understanding

Books also help us understand and empathize with others. Through diverse stories, we connect with people from different backgrounds, and it teaches us to be compassionate and open-minded.

Cultivating Mindfulness and Relaxation

And don’t forget, reading is an excellent way to relax and be mindful. It’s a peaceful escape from the noise around us, and it can reduce stress and bring a sense of calm to our lives.

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So, , grab a book, dive into its pages, and experience the magic of reading to enhance your life.

LEAVE A COMMENT: What’s your favorite benefit of reading?


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Why Finding Your Life Purpose is Essential for Personal Growth and Success

Life is a grand adventure, filled with countless opportunities and paths to explore. But amidst the chaos and busyness of daily life, have you ever wondered about your life’s purpose? In this blog post, we’ll delve into the significance of finding your life purpose and how it can fuel your personal growth and lead you to success. So, let’s go!

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF FINDING YOUR LIFE PURPOSE

1 / A Sense of Direction

Finding your life purpose provides you with a compass to navigate through the twists and turns of life. It gives you a clear sense of direction and helps you make decisions that align with your values and aspirations. When you have a purpose, every action you take becomes intentional and meaningful. You no longer drift aimlessly; instead, you’re propelled forward with a sense of purpose and passion.

2 / Unleashing Your Full Potential

Your life purpose is like a hidden superpower waiting to be unleashed. It taps into your unique talents, passions, and strengths, allowing you to shine in your truest form. When you align your life with your purpose, you unlock your full potential and discover what you’re truly capable of achieving. Embracing your purpose empowers you to step outside your comfort zone, take risks, and embrace growth opportunities.

3 / Motivation and Resilience

Life is full of challenges, setbacks, and moments of doubt. However, having a clear life purpose can serve as a powerful motivator during difficult times. When you know why you’re doing what you’re doing, it becomes easier to stay focused, resilient, and persistent in the face of obstacles. Your purpose becomes a source of inner strength that keeps you going, even when the journey gets tough.

4 / Living a Meaningful and Fulfilling Life

Deep down, we all yearn for a life filled with meaning and fulfillment. Finding your life purpose allows you to live authentically and in alignment with your values. It brings a sense of fulfillment that transcends external achievements and material possessions. When you live in line with your purpose, every day becomes an opportunity to make a positive impact and leave a lasting legacy.

5 / Creating a Ripple Effect

Discovering your life purpose not only transforms your own life but also has a ripple effect on those around you. When you live with purpose, you inspire others to do the same. Your actions, passion, and dedication become a catalyst for change, igniting a spark in others and creating a ripple effect of positivity and empowerment. Your purpose becomes a gift you share with the world.


The journey to finding your life purpose is a profound and personal one. It’s a quest that requires self-reflection, exploration, and an open heart. As you embark on this transformative path, remember that your purpose is unique to you. Embrace the beauty of your individuality and trust in the process. Your life purpose is the key to unlocking your personal growth, living a meaningful life, and achieving success on your own terms. So, embrace the adventure and let your purpose guide you toward a life of joy, fulfillment, and limitless possibilities. You’ve got this!


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