Faves!

These are a few of the resources I use (or have used) and love. None of these are sponsored unless otherwise noted.

 

Queer / LGBTQ+ support

Everywhere is Queer

I found my therapist through this app (!!), and it’s honestly packed with amazing LGBTQ+ resources. From affirming healthcare and therapists to bookstores, apparel, events, and more, it covers everything. I love checking what’s nearby and seeing how the queer community is showing up in my area. It’s such a gem.

Online Whiteboards:

If you’re doing the puzzle portion of the book digitally, these are great tools to move pieces around and see everything laid out.

Ziteboard

A free, easy-to-use whiteboard tool. You don’t need an account to use it, which is great for quick visual brainstorming or puzzle mapping.

Canva whiteboard

Canva’s whiteboard feature requires an account, but it’s great for visual layout and flexible if you want to get creative. Canva also works well for making fliers or branded docs.

Visual Planning tools (Online)

Whimsical:

I love Whimsical and honestly wish I found it earlier. I use it for flowcharts, mind maps, diagrams, inspo boards, and basically anything visual. It’s great for mapping out ideas and systems. Helps me keep tasks, notes, progress, and visuals all in one place and makes big ideas easier to untangle and connect. (10/10, genuinely obsessed.)

Notion:

You've probably heard of Notion before and it's great! It's kind of like Whimsical, but instead of flowcharts, it's more for handling notes, databases, and task lists in one place. I use it for more personal stuff: fashion things, reading and anime lists, habit tracking, gardening fruit and veggie notes, and random life logs. Clean layout, customizable pages, and easy to use without juggling 10 apps. 

Physical Calendar

Ivory Paper Co. all in one calendar

This calendar is EVERYTHING for me. I’m usually not into calendars, but for some reason this one really works. It combines monthly, weekly, and daily spreads in one place. There’s space for reading lists, to-do lists, schedules, hydration checks, meal plans, goals, and more. I don’t use every single section, but I love having the option. Only downsides: the shipping takes a little planning ahead, and it only covers six - eight months (because it’s so thick from all the features!) and it's on the pricier side.

Freelance

Upwork

I looooved using Upwork. That’s where I found my incredible artist, Jimmi! It was super easy to use, and I found her within three days. I’ll share more details in a YouTube video if y'all would like to see that, but if you need freelance help, it’s a solid place to start.

Website building

Shopify

The one I’m using right now, LOL. Shopify is a solid website builder with a ton of tools to actually get your business up and running. Some parts can be a little confusing, especially when some steps depend on other steps, but overall, I’ve really liked the experience. I chose it because it gives me full control over my shop, works with print-on-demand tools, lets me sell both physical and digital products, and has flexible design options that don’t look cookie-cutter.

Business Email

Proton Mail

This is the email platform I’m using for Helianth & Co. I picked it because it’s affordable, privacy-focused, and not owned by a mega corp. They have free personal emails and then a business emails you can pay for. So far it’s been simple to set up and does what I need. I’ll update this if that changes.

Book printing

Lulu 

This is the print-on-demand service I’m using for my books. I chose it because it gives me more control, doesn't require Amazon, and works with Shopify. I’m still in the early stages, but the setup has been super smooth so far. I’ll share more once I’ve tested my first proof copy.

Hair products!

Miche Beauty

I know it seems like this has NOTHING to do with creativity or self discovery, but it does! My hair is part of my self expression, which is part of self discovery and creativity. I just started using these products regularly and I LOVE them so much. My hair feels so soft and is staying how I want it to look for far longer. I may do a video on the specific products I use from them, but I love this brand so much. They're also black owned which is great! I love supporting my people!