So there I was, boredom-scrolling through my newsletters like a modern-day Indiana Jones searching for the hidden temple of "Actually Useful Software."

I am a tech tool junkie extraordinaire. I love being able to try out new things and pass recommendations on to you, my online family. (Sometimes with an affiliate link. No shame in my game.)

And here's the thing. My exploration process isn't random. There's a method to my madness.

So today? I'm sharing my Tech Explorer's Field Guide. The behind-the-scenes look at how I find, test, and implement new tools so you don't waste precious time on digital dead ends.

I jump in first. Always have.

Swimming pool? I'm cannonballing while others apply sunscreen. New restaurant? I'm ordering the weirdest menu item while friends play it safe.

*This dessert didn’t come to play. She came to slay.*

And tech tools? Oh honey. I've tested more platforms than I've had hot dinners. Some were amazing (hello, GoBrunch!). Some were so bad I still wake up in cold sweats.

Every tool I test is one you don't have to waste time on. My tech adventures become your shortcut. That's the main reason why I keep diving into these digital rabbit holes.

Here's how I find and implement new tools without losing my mind:

1. The Spark of Curiosity (AKA The "Ooh, Shiny!" Phase)

This is where I spot something interesting. Could be an ad that doesn't make me want to throw my device across the room. Could be a recommendation from someone I trust.

With Perplexity, I was actually ahead of the curve. I'd been using it for months before their ads went viral. That flutter of "this could be cool" excitement? That's the first essential ingredient.

2. The Initial Reconnaissance

Before committing my precious time, I do a quick investigation:

What problem does this actually solve?
Is it solving a problem I actually have?
Does the landing page make me feel like I'm being yelled at by a Monster Truck rally announcer?

With Perplexity, I was intrigued by the promise of AI research that includes actual citations. Revolutionary concept, right? Citing sources? Who'd have thought!

3. The Test Drive

This is where I roll up my sleeves. I don't just sign up—I dive in with actual work tasks.

With Perplexity, I started asking questions I already knew the answers to. Sneaky, right? It's like when you ask a kid what 2+2 is, just to see if they're paying attention.

Then I moved to questions where I needed real answers. About emerging AI trends. About specific technical issues. About chocolate chip cookie recipes. (Research requires sustenance.)

4. The "Will This Actually Stick?" Evaluation

The most critical phase. A tool might be shiny, but if it doesn't fit my workflow, it's just digital clutter.

I ask myself:

Am I still using this after a week?
Does it spark joy or just confusion?
Am I telling other people about it, or hiding it like that weird music phase in college? (We don't talk about the ska period.)

When I tested Perplexity, I poked and prodded it it like a suspicious package at an airport.

*The book floats, glows, and self-edits, but* sure, let’s keep poking it with tweezers, Greg.

The result? It's become my go-to for research. Saves me hours that I would've spent hopping between sources and piecing together information. It's not perfect by any means, and I highly recommend checking it out.

You might be thinking, "Cool story, RJ, but why should I care about your tech adventures?"

Fair question! Here's why:

Time is precious. Every minute testing a useless tool is a minute lost creating something amazing. Or watching cat videos. (No judgment.)

The right tools transform work. Finding the perfect tool feels like suddenly having superpowers. I've seen entire businesses shift after finding that perfect tech solution.

You deserve tools that work for YOU. Not what some marketing team thinks should work. Not what worked for some influencer with perfect hair. What serves YOUR unique way of working.

Speaking of tools that actually solve problems, have you played with my Troll Emergency Response System yet?

I built TERS for those moments when someone drops a nasty comment on your post, sends a snarky email, or when your inner goblin starts yakking. You know those moments - when you're too stunned to think of the perfect comeback.

Just pop the insult into TERS and it generates three razor-sharp responses - each with the perfect blend of wit, sass, and "bless your heart" energy.

Because sometimes, the right words are the best defense against trolls - whether they're online, in-person, or living rent-free in your head.

Want to take TERS for a spin? Head over here and give it a whirl. See if it passes your own tech evaluation process!

How a shiny object becomes a secret weapon...