Hi everyone,

This week, we're learning how to maximise serendipity, understanding the difference between speed and velocity plus the weird science of how sweat attracts.

Here's an additional quick note about no-code. I used to think that I needed to learn coding to bring my ideas to life in the form of an app, or write some automated scripts to make me more efficient at work.

That all changed when I discovered no-code tools. I built Newsletter OS, BrainPint's landing page, a mobile app that helped collect Covid testing results for a live event, Spanish Learning Resources (a mobile app) and this carved a path for me to break into tech. I now use no-code every day at work to make me a more efficient operator so I can work on higher-level strategic goals.

If you've been thinking of picking up these skills, the good news is that we are launching a beginner-friendly program, On Deck No-Code Foundations that runs for 4 weeks and helps you go from zero to one in no-code. After three cohorts of building relationships with incredible builders, we’ve identified the best playbooks & content that can help those who’re just entering the space. Applications are ongoing now for an April 25th kick-off. Apply today!

Cheers,
Janel

How To Maximise Serendipity

The best opportunities are the ones you never expected. Serendipity can be learned. Here are some useful tips:

• Build a serendipity vehicle: create content that attracts like-minded people to you. Mine is BrainPint.
• Be a connector: Open doors for others and spark connections.
• Ask for help: Tell others what you need help with!

Understanding Speed and Velocity: Saying “NO” to the Non-Essential
Saying no is tough, especially when you're a team player. But saying yes to everything is a quick road to mediocrity. You need to distinguish between tasks that offer a lot of speed and those that offer velocity, and decline the former.

Smell You Later: The Weird Science of How Sweat Attracts
We're at times weirded out by the smell of sweat, but the actual fact is that there are many clues in its scent (or odor, if you must say that) that draw us together.

How To Do Community Based Marketing
Community Outreach is a marketing approach that consists of the following:

• Making connections on social media / niche-based communities
• Identifying users who might be a good fit for your product/service
• Making them aware of your company in a value-adding way
  

If done poorly, it can leave a bad taste in the communities you're in. This article provides useful tips on how to get this right. In short, give first, take later. 

Why You're Stuck At Step 1 in Your No-Code Journey
There are common reasons why one can get stuck when learning something for the first time - building with no-code. But here are useful tips on how to get back on track. 

Mine - See what companies have your personal data and reclaim it using this free tool

Summari - Web and mobile app that can summarize long text articles into bullet points using AI for quick reading

Random Users - Generate random user profile pictures and names which can be used as placeholders for your projects, prototype and design mockups.

Draw Aurora - Simple, meditative website with illustrations that mimic you looking out of a train window, for when you need a moment to relax.

Driving Simulator - Have fun driving on Google Maps.