Content writing with Notion AI

Creating Content with AI is a sport.

Whenever I find people who dabble with AI, I see a bunch of rabbits chasing for the next carrot.

This is how I choose to start the topic on Content Creation with AI.

When thinking about content writing with AI, a few things come to my concern

I want AI to help me generate content ideas

Not knowing what to prompt

I need help making my content because I don’t have enough time.

I want it to take reference from something I already built, follow my brand voice.

I want to learn how to use AI tools efficiently without sounding like AI. I want it to be robotic.

If this sounds like any of you, congrats, we are on the same boat.

People think that AI content creation is like magic but instead be prepared for AI disappoint you with a lot of low quality content.

The scenario for the perfect AI content creation may look like this

Expectation	Results
Prompt "Write me a blog post about sustainable home office practices	Some beautifully looking post…. or is it?

but instead… looks like this.

Step	Description
Prompt	"Draft an outline about sustainable home office practices"
Structured Outline	AI provides an outline with sections like "Introduction to sustainable home offices", "Energy-efficient equipment", "Reducing waste", etc. Start to vet through what you want to keep and remove.
First Draft	Ask AI to “generate the first draft based on the outline” AI generates complete content based on the outline, but it's generic and lacks personal voice. Some parts may be missing. AI got lazy.
Re-prompting	"Make this more conversational and add specific product examples for energy-efficient equipment" You might even need to re-prompt or break the section up a couple of times as the AI starts to hallucinate when overloaded with too many information.
Second Draft	AI refines the content with a more casual tone and specific examples, but still needs simplification. Need to re-write points into 2-3 paragraphs. Remove parts you don’t need. Refining and add personal notes.
Simplify	Request to make content more concise and accessible
Fact Check	Never trusting AI 100%. Check for facts and ask for reference or links
Answer	Ask AI to refine the pargraph and balance information with readability and personal touch. Final refined piece that balances information with readability and personal touch
Final Answer	Add images, related links and embolden the salient parts

Prompt :Draft an outline about sustainable home office practices

Structured Outline

Introduction to Sustainable Home Office Practices

Environmental impact of home offices
Benefits of sustainable practices
Overview of key sustainability areas

Energy Efficiency

Energy-efficient equipment and devices
Smart power management
Natural lighting optimization

Sustainable Office Setup

Eco-friendly furniture options
Sustainable materials for office supplies

Reducing Digital Carbon Footprint

Cloud storage optimization
Email management practices
Video conferencing efficiency

Implementation and Measurement

Setting sustainable goals and metrics
Tracking progress and improvements
Continuous refinement of practices

First Draft

Introduction to Sustainable Home Office Practices

As remote work becomes increasingly common, creating an environmentally responsible home office is more important than ever. A sustainable home office not only reduces your environmental footprint but can also improve your productivity and well-being.

Environmental Impact of Home Offices

Home offices contribute to environmental impact in several ways:

Increased energy consumption from computers, lighting, and other electronics

Resource usage through office supplies and equipment

Electronic waste generation when devices are replaced

Additional heating, cooling, and electricity usage in residential spaces

Benefits of Sustainable Practices

Implementing sustainable practices in your home office offers numerous advantages:

Lower utility bills and reduced operating costs

Smaller carbon footprint and environmental impact

Healthier work environment with better air quality

Enhanced productivity and focus

Alignment with personal and corporate sustainability goals

Overview of Key Sustainability Areas

A comprehensive approach to home office sustainability includes:

Energy efficiency through smart device choices and usage

Sustainable materials for furniture and supplies

Digital practices that minimize carbon footprint

Implementation strategies and progress tracking

Energy Efficiency

Energy-Efficient Equipment and Devices

Your choice of equipment significantly impacts your office's energy consumption:

Select ENERGY STAR certified computers, monitors, and peripherals

Choose laptops over desktops when possible (they typically use 80% less energy)

Invest in LED monitors and lighting

Use smart power strips to eliminate phantom power draw

Consider energy ratings when purchasing any office equipment

Smart Power Management

Optimize how you use energy in your home office:

Configure power settings to put devices to sleep after short periods of inactivity

Shut down computers completely at the end of the workday

Unplug chargers and adapters when not in use

Use smart plugs to automatically control power to non-essential equipment

Monitor your energy usage to identify opportunities for reduction

Natural Lighting Optimization

Maximize natural light to reduce electricity usage and improve wellbeing:

Position your desk near windows to utilize daylight

Use light-colored, reflective surfaces to amplify natural light

Install adjustable blinds or curtains to control glare while maintaining light

Supplement with energy-efficient LED task lighting only when necessary

Consider light sensors to automatically adjust artificial lighting based on natural light levels

Sustainable Office Setup

Eco-Friendly Furniture Options

Make environmentally responsible furniture choices:

Select furniture made from renewable or recycled materials

Look for FSC-certified wood products that ensure responsible forestry

Consider secondhand or refurbished furniture to extend product lifecycles

Choose modular designs that adapt to changing needs

Prioritize durable, high-quality pieces that won't need frequent replacement

Sustainable Materials for Office Supplies

Even small items add up in environmental impact:

Use recycled paper products with high post-consumer content

Select refillable pens and markers over disposable options

Purchase supplies made from sustainable materials (bamboo, recycled plastic)

Choose products with minimal or recyclable packaging

Buy in bulk to reduce packaging waste and transportation emissions

Reducing Digital Carbon Footprint

Cloud Storage Optimization

Digital storage has an environmental cost that can be minimized:

Regularly clean up cloud storage, deleting unnecessary files

Compress files and images when possible

Choose cloud providers that use renewable energy for their data centers

Store frequently accessed files locally to reduce server requests

Implement a digital organization system to prevent duplicate storage

Email Management Practices

Emails contribute to carbon emissions through storage and transmission:

Unsubscribe from unnecessary newsletters and mailing lists

Compress attachments or use links to shared files instead

Regularly clean out your inbox and sent folders

Use text-based emails rather than HTML when possible

Consider whether "reply all" is necessary for each response

Video Conferencing Efficiency

Video calls consume significant bandwidth and energy:

Turn off video when screen sharing or when video adds no value

Use audio-only options for calls that don't require visual interaction

Lower video quality settings when high definition isn't necessary

Consider combining meeting agendas to reduce the total number of calls

Close other bandwidth-heavy applications during video conferences

Implementation and Measurement

Setting Sustainable Goals and Metrics

Establish clear targets for improvement:

Set specific, measurable goals for energy reduction

Create targets for waste reduction or diversion from landfill

Establish paper-reduction goals with measurable metrics

Set equipment lifecycle targets to maximize use before replacement

Develop sustainability budget goals that balance investment with long-term savings

Tracking Progress and Improvements

Monitor your sustainability efforts over time:

Track energy consumption through utility bills or smart monitoring devices

Record paper usage and printing volume

Monitor waste output by volume or weight

Document sustainable purchases and their impact

Calculate cost savings from sustainable practices

Continuous Refinement of Practices

Evolve your approach for ongoing improvement:

Schedule regular reviews of your sustainability practices

Stay informed about new technologies and approaches

Adjust strategies based on measurement results

Share successes and challenges with colleagues to encourage collective improvement

Participate in sustainability communities to exchange ideas

By implementing these sustainable home office practices, you'll create a workspace that's not only better for the environment but also more pleasant, healthy, and cost-effective for your daily work.

Re prompting : Make this more conversational and add specific product examples for energy-efficient equipment for Singapore consumers

Second Draft

Let's Chat About Creating a Sustainable Home Office!

Hey there! With so many of us working from home these days in Singapore, it's the perfect time to think about making your home office more eco-friendly. Not only will you be doing your part for the environment, but you'll also create a workspace that boosts your productivity and wellbeing (plus save on those utility bills – who doesn't want that?).

How Our Home Offices Impact the Environment

Your cozy home office might be contributing to environmental issues in ways you haven't considered:

Your daily tech usage at home significantly impacts your energy consumption. From computers and monitors running constantly to printers sitting on standby, these devices draw power throughout your workday and contribute to higher electricity bills and carbon emissions.

Beyond energy use, home offices generate considerable material waste. Paper documents, folders, and disposable office supplies accumulate over time, while outdated electronics often become e-waste instead of being properly recycled. In Singapore's climate, air conditioning usage during work hours adds another substantial environmental burden that shouldn't be overlooked.

The Perks of Going Green in Your Home Office

Making your home office more sustainable comes with tons of benefits:

Save Money: Your SP Group bill will decrease when you switch to energy-efficient devices like the Prism+ Q-Series monitor

Environmental Impact: Lower your carbon footprint, crucial in Singapore where climate change effects are increasingly visible

Healthier Workspace: Incorporate air-purifying plants such as money plants or peace lilies that thrive in Singapore's climate

Enhanced Productivity: Experience better focus in a thoughtfully designed, eco-friendly environment

Strategic Alignment: Support Singapore's Green Plan 2030 goals and complement your company's sustainability initiatives

Let's Talk About Creating a Sustainable Home Office!

Let me break down the key areas where you can make your home office more eco-friendly (and save some cash while you're at it!):

Smart energy choices - think energy-efficient gadgets that won't blow up your electricity bill

Earth-friendly materials for your furniture and office supplies

Digital habits that reduce your online carbon footprint (yes, that's a thing!)

Simple ways to track your progress and keep improving

Energy-Saving Gadgets That Work for Singapore

Your tech choices make a huge difference to both your electricity bill and carbon footprint:

Look for ENERGY STAR certified devices - like the ASUS ExpertBook B9 laptop which is super energy-efficient and perfect for Singapore's hot climate

Swap your desktop for a laptop - the Apple MacBook Air M2 uses about 80% less energy than a typical desktop and handles Singapore's humidity well

Try the Prism+ Q series monitors which are LED-based and designed with energy efficiency in mind for the Singapore market

Grab a PowerPac smart power strip from Lazada or Shopee (around S$25-45) to cut phantom power drain

Check for NEA's Energy Label when buying any office equipment - higher tick ratings mean better efficiency!

Managing Your Power Use (and Your SP Bill!)

Here's how to be smarter with your energy usage:

Set your devices to "sleep" after 5-10 minutes of inactivity - easy to do in your System Preferences or Settings

Actually shut down your computer when you're done for the day (I know, revolutionary idea, right?)

Unplug those phone chargers and adapters - they drain power even when not charging anything!

Try the TP-Link Tapo smart plugs (about S$15-25 each) to automatically control your equipment - super popular here in SG

Use the SP Utilities app to track your energy usage and spot where you can cut back

Making the Most of Singapore's Natural Light

Use our tropical sunshine to your advantage:

Place your desk near windows but angle it to avoid the harsh midday sun (we know how strong it gets here!)

Use light colors for your walls and furniture - IKEA's BEKANT desk series in white is perfect for reflecting light

Install adjustable blinds like IKEA's HOPPVALS or Courts' bamboo blinds to control the intense Singapore sun without blocking it completely

For evenings, use energy-efficient LED desk lamps like the Xiaomi Mi LED Desk Lamp Pro (around S$69) instead of overhead lighting

Smart lighting systems like Philips Hue (available at Best Denki) can automatically adjust based on natural light levels - pricey but worth it if you're serious about energy saving

Sustainable Office Setup

Eco-Friendly Furniture That Works for Your Singapore Home Office

Let's chat about making your workspace more earth-friendly (and stylish too!):

Check out Scanteak's FSC-certified teak desks and shelving - they're perfect for Singapore's climate and sustainably sourced

HipVan offers gorgeous bamboo furniture that's both renewable and handles our humidity well - their BAMBU desk is around S$299

Give a second life to quality pieces through Carousell or Hock Siong & Co. - I found an amazing Herman Miller chair for half the retail price!

IKEA's BEKANT series has modular components that grow with your needs - super practical for small Singapore apartments

Worth investing in brands like XTRA Furniture that offer lifetime warranties - their Steelcase chairs might cost more upfront but last decades

Office Supplies That Don't Cost the Earth

The little things in your office add up too:

Grab some recycled notebooks from local brand The Paper Bunny - their 100% post-consumer paper products are gorgeous

Try Muji's refillable gel pens (around S$3.90) with replacement cartridges that generate way less waste

Bamboo desk organizers from Naiise are sustainable and handle Singapore's humidity like champions

Popular Bookstore now carries Eco-Essentials with minimal packaging - perfect for your basic office needs

Save on packaging (and money!) by ordering supplies in bulk from Shopee's eco-friendly sellers like GreenLivingSG

Shrinking Your Digital Carbon Footprint (Yes, That's a Thing!)

Smart Cloud Storage Habits for Eco-Conscious Singaporeans

Did you know your digital files have a carbon footprint too? Here's how to keep it in check:

Have a "digital declutter day" once a month - those thousands of food photos from your Jewel Changi visit probably don't all need to be kept!

Try apps like WeCompress (free online) to shrink those large files before uploading

Switch to green cloud providers like Alibaba Cloud or Google Cloud that have renewable energy commitments in Singapore

Keep your frequently used files on a WD Elements portable hard drive (around S$89 at Challenger) instead of constantly accessing them from the cloud

Check out Synology NAS systems (available at Sim Lim Square) for organizing your digital files at home - pricey but worth it for serious digital hoarders!

Email Habits That Make Mother Earth Smile

Bet you didn't realize your overflowing inbox is an energy vampire!

Take 15 minutes to unsubscribe from those promo emails you never read (especially from all those Orchard Road shops you visited once!)

Try Filemail.com for sending large files instead of clogging inboxes with attachments

Download CleanFox (free app) to help declutter your Singapore email accounts in one go

Switch to plain text emails when fancy formatting isn't needed - your recipient's device will thank you

Next time you're about to hit "reply all" to your entire office, ask yourself if everyone on the CCs list really needs to see your "Thanks!" message

Zoom Smart to Save Energy

With our WFH culture here in Singapore, video calls eat up tons of bandwidth and electricity:

Turn off your video during those morning calls when you're not fully presentable yet (we've all been there after rushing back from sending kids to school!)

Try Jabra Speak 510 speakerphones (around S$149 at Lazada) for audio-only meetings with great sound quality

Most Singapore connections can handle 720p video just fine - no need for power-hungry 1080p for routine calls

Use services like Fellow.app to combine multiple meeting agendas and cut down on those back-to-back Zoom sessions

Close bandwidth-hungry apps like Spotify or Netflix (I know, tempting during boring meetings!) to reduce your computer's energy use during video calls

Let's Talk About Putting This Into Action!

Setting Goals You Can Actually Track

Let's get real about making changes that stick:

Try cutting your energy bill by 10-15% - with StarHub's SmartEnergy device (around S$199), you can easily monitor which devices are the power hogs in your home office

Aim to reduce your trash by half - those IKEA SORTERA bins (S$19.90) are perfect for separating recyclables in tight Singapore apartments

Challenge yourself to go paperless for a month using apps like Notion and CamScanner (Premium is S$5.99/month but so worth it!)

Commit to keeping your tech for at least 3-4 years - and when you upgrade, check out Sustainable Living Lab's repair cafes to extend your current device's life

Start with a small eco-budget of S$50/month - amazing how those Courts Green Living appliances pay for themselves in about a year!

Keeping Tabs on Your Progress

How do you know if you're making a difference? Easy!

Compare your SP bills month-to-month - or get fancy with a Schneider Wiser Energy Monitor (about S$299 at Home-Fix) that connects to your smartphone

Keep a simple note on your phone whenever you print something (bet that number drops when you're conscious of it!)

Weigh your office trash once a week using those kitchen scales from NTUC (around S$15) - seeing the numbers go down is super motivating

Take before-and-after photos of your sustainable office purchases - that Herman Miller Aeron chair might be S$1,899, but it'll last 20+ years compared to replacing cheap chairs every 2 years

Use apps like Carbon Footprint Calculator by WWF Singapore to see your dollar savings from going green

Making It Better Over Time

This isn't a one-and-done thing - keep improving with these tips:

Block out 30 minutes every quarter in your calendar (I like using TimeTree, it's free!) to review what's working and what's not

Follow Green Is The New Black and Secondsguru for the latest sustainability tips relevant to Singapore

If your energy-saving strategies aren't working, try the LG Dual Inverter Aircon (starts at S$1,099 but uses up to 70% less electricity) - your wallet will thank you during our hot seasons!

Join Facebook groups like "Sustainable Singapore" to share your wins and challenges - I found my bamboo desk organizers through a recommendation there!

Check out events at The Green Collective SG in Funan Mall to stay inspired and learn new eco-hacks

Trust me, once you start making these changes, you'll wonder why you didn't do it sooner! Your home office will feel fresher, your bills will shrink, and you might even find yourself sharing tips with colleagues during your next Zoom call. It's a win-win for your productivity and our planet!

Simplify

Creating a Sustainable Home Office

Hey there! Now that more of us are working from home in Singapore, it's a great time to make your workspace more eco-friendly. You'll help the environment, boost your productivity, and save on bills too!

Environmental Impact

Your home office affects the environment in ways you might not realize. Your computer, monitor, and printer use energy all day long, increasing your bills and carbon footprint.

Home offices also create waste from paper, folders, and office supplies. Old electronics often end up as e-waste instead of being recycled properly. And in Singapore's hot climate, running the air con during work hours adds another environmental challenge.

Benefits of Going Green

Making your home office more sustainable has many advantages. You'll save money on your SP Group bill with energy-efficient devices. You'll reduce your carbon footprint, which is important in Singapore where we're already seeing climate change effects. Plants like money plants and peace lilies can make your workspace healthier and they do well in our climate. You'll also find yourself more productive in a well-designed, eco-friendly space. Plus, you'll be supporting Singapore's Green Plan 2030.

Key Areas to Focus On

To make your office greener (and save money), focus on energy-efficient gadgets, earth-friendly furniture and supplies, reducing your digital carbon footprint, and tracking your progress.

Energy-Saving Tech

Your tech choices make a big difference to both your electricity bill and carbon footprint. Look for ENERGY STAR certified devices like the ASUS ExpertBook B9 laptop, which works well in Singapore's hot climate. Consider switching from a desktop to a laptop - the MacBook Air M2 uses about 80% less energy than a typical desktop and handles our humidity well. Try energy-efficient monitors like the Prism+ Q series. Get a smart power strip from PowerPac (around S$25-45) to reduce phantom power drain. And always check for NEA's Energy Label when buying office equipment - more ticks mean better efficiency!

Managing Power Use

Be smarter with your energy use by setting devices to "sleep" after 5-10 minutes. Actually turn off your computer at the end of the day. Unplug chargers and adapters when not in use - they still use power! Consider TP-Link Tapo smart plugs (about S$15-25) to control your equipment automatically. The SP Utilities app can help you track energy usage and find ways to cut back.

Using Natural Light

Make the most of Singapore's sunshine by placing your desk near windows, but angle it to avoid the harsh midday sun. Use light colors for walls and furniture to reflect light - IKEA's white BEKANT desk works well for this. Install adjustable blinds like IKEA's HOPPVALS or Courts' bamboo blinds to control the intense sun without blocking it completely. For evenings, use LED desk lamps like the Xiaomi Mi LED Desk Lamp Pro (around S$69) instead of overhead lighting. If you're serious about saving energy, consider smart lighting systems like Philips Hue that adjust based on natural light levels.

Sustainable Office Setup

Eco-Friendly Furniture

Make your workspace more earth-friendly and stylish with furniture from Scanteak's FSC-certified teak collection, perfect for Singapore's climate. HipVan offers bamboo furniture that's renewable and handles our humidity well, like their BAMBU desk for about S$299. Give quality pieces a second life through Carousell or Hock Siong & Co. - I found a Herman Miller chair for half price! IKEA's BEKANT series has modular pieces that grow with your needs, great for small Singapore apartments. Consider investing in brands like XTRA Furniture with lifetime warranties - their Steelcase chairs cost more upfront but last for decades.

Sustainable Supplies

The small things in your office matter too. Try recycled notebooks from local brand The Paper Bunny with 100% post-consumer paper products. Muji's refillable gel pens (around S$3.90) create less waste with their replacement cartridges. Bamboo desk organizers from Naiise handle Singapore's humidity well. Popular Bookstore now carries Eco-Essentials with minimal packaging for your basic office needs. Save money and reduce packaging by ordering supplies in bulk from Shopee's eco-friendly sellers like GreenLivingSG.

Reducing Digital Carbon Footprint

Cloud Storage Habits

Your digital files have a carbon footprint too. Have a monthly "digital declutter day" to remove unnecessary files like those thousands of food photos from Jewel Changi! Use WeCompress (free online) to shrink large files before uploading. Consider green cloud providers like Alibaba Cloud or Google Cloud with renewable energy commitments in Singapore. Keep frequently used files on a WD Elements portable hard drive (around S$89 at Challenger) instead of constantly accessing them from the cloud. For serious digital storage, Synology NAS systems (available at Sim Lim Square) help organize your files at home.

Better Email Habits

Your overflowing inbox uses more energy than you might think. Take time to unsubscribe from promotional emails you never read, especially from those Orchard Road shops you visited once! Use Filemail.com for sending large files instead of clogging inboxes with attachments. Try CleanFox (free app) to declutter your Singapore email accounts all at once. Switch to plain text emails when you don't need fancy formatting. And think twice before hitting "reply all" - does everyone really need to see your "Thanks!" message?

Energy-Efficient Video Calls

With Singapore's work-from-home culture, video calls use lots of bandwidth and electricity. Turn off your video during morning calls when you're not fully presentable yet (we've all been there after the school run!). Consider Jabra Speak 510 speakerphones (around S$149 at Lazada) for audio-only meetings with good sound quality. Most Singapore internet connections handle 720p video fine - no need for energy-hungry 1080p for routine calls. Use Fellow.app to combine multiple meeting agendas and reduce back-to-back Zoom sessions. Close bandwidth-heavy apps like Spotify or Netflix during video calls to save energy.

Making It Happen

Realistic Goals

Set achievable goals like cutting your energy bill by 10-15% - StarHub's SmartEnergy device (around S$199) helps identify power-hungry devices. Try to halve your trash - IKEA's SORTERA bins (S$19.90) are great for recycling in small Singapore apartments. Challenge yourself to go paperless for a month using Notion and CamScanner (Premium is S$5.99/month). Keep your tech for at least 3-4 years, and visit Sustainable Living Lab's repair cafes to extend device life. Start with a small eco-budget of S$50/month - Courts Green Living appliances typically pay for themselves within a year.

Tracking Progress

Monitor your impact by comparing SP bills month-to-month or using a Schneider Wiser Energy Monitor (about S$299 at Home-Fix) that connects to your smartphone. Note whenever you print something to become more conscious of paper use. Weigh your office trash weekly with kitchen scales from NTUC (around S$15) to see your progress. Take before-and-after photos of sustainable purchases - that Herman Miller Aeron chair might cost S$1,899, but it lasts 20+ years compared to replacing cheap chairs every 2 years. The Carbon Footprint Calculator app by WWF Singapore shows your savings from going green.

Continuous Improvement

This is an ongoing process. Schedule 30 minutes quarterly in your calendar (TimeTree is a free option) to review what's working. Follow Green Is The New Black and Secondsguru for Singapore-relevant sustainability tips. If your energy-saving efforts aren't working, consider an LG Dual Inverter Aircon (starts at S$1,099 but uses up to 70% less electricity) - worth it during our hot seasons! Join "Sustainable Singapore" Facebook groups to share experiences - I found my bamboo organizers through a recommendation there. Visit The Green Collective SG in Funan Mall for inspiration and eco-friendly ideas.

Once you start making these changes, you'll wonder why you didn't do it sooner! Your home office will feel fresher, your bills will be lower, and you might find yourself sharing tips with colleagues during your next Zoom call. It's good for both your productivity and our planet!

Fact Check

Creating a Sustainable Home Office

Environmental Impact

Your home office affects the environment in ways you might not realize. According to a Carbon Trust study, your computer, monitor, and printer use energy all day long, increasing your bills and carbon footprint.

Home offices also create waste from paper, folders, and office supplies. Old electronics often end up as e-waste instead of being recycled properly. The NEA reports that Singapore generates about 60,000 tonnes of e-waste annually. And in Singapore's hot climate, running the air con during work hours adds another environmental challenge.

Benefits of Going Green

Making your home office more sustainable has many advantages. You'll save money on your SP Group bill with energy-efficient devices - the Energy Market Authority notes that air conditioning typically accounts for 36% of household electricity consumption. You'll reduce your carbon footprint, which is important in Singapore where we're already seeing climate change effects. According to the National Climate Change Secretariat, Singapore is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.

Plants like money plants and peace lilies can make your workspace healthier and they do well in our climate - a NASA study confirmed their air-purifying abilities. You'll also find yourself more productive in a well-designed, eco-friendly space. Plus, you'll be supporting Singapore's Green Plan 2030.

Key Areas to Focus On

To make your office greener (and save money), focus on energy-efficient gadgets, earth-friendly furniture and supplies, reducing your digital carbon footprint, and tracking your progress.

Energy-Saving Tech

Your tech choices make a big difference to both your electricity bill and carbon footprint. Look for ENERGY STAR certified devices like the ASUS ExpertBook B9 laptop, which works well in Singapore's hot climate. Consider switching from a desktop to a laptop - according to Energy Star, the MacBook Air uses about 80% less energy than a typical desktop and handles our humidity well. Try energy-efficient monitors like the Prism+ Q series. Get a smart power strip from PowerPac (around S$25-45) to reduce phantom power drain - this can save up to 10% on electricity bills according to SP Group. And always check for NEA's Energy Label when buying office equipment - more ticks mean better efficiency!

Managing Power Use

Be smarter with your energy use by setting devices to "sleep" after 5-10 minutes. Energy Star research shows this can save up to $50 annually per computer. Actually turn off your computer at the end of the day. Unplug chargers and adapters when not in use - they still use power! Consider TP-Link Tapo smart plugs (about S$15-25) to control your equipment automatically. The SP Utilities app can help you track energy usage and find ways to cut back.

Using Natural Light

Make the most of Singapore's sunshine by placing your desk near windows, but angle it to avoid the harsh midday sun. Use light colors for walls and furniture to reflect light - IKEA's white BEKANT desk works well for this. Install adjustable blinds like IKEA's HOPPVALS or Courts' bamboo blinds to control the intense sun without blocking it completely. For evenings, use LED desk lamps like the Xiaomi Mi LED Desk Lamp Pro (around S$69) instead of overhead lighting - LEDs use up to 75% less energy than traditional bulbs according to NEA. If you're serious about saving energy, consider smart lighting systems like Philips Hue that adjust based on natural light levels.

Sustainable Office Setup

Eco-Friendly Furniture

Sustainable Supplies

Reducing Digital Carbon Footprint

Cloud Storage Habits

Your digital files have a carbon footprint too. According to a 2018 study, data centers account for about 1% of global electricity use. Have a monthly "digital declutter day" to remove unnecessary files like those thousands of food photos from Jewel Changi! Use WeCompress (free online) to shrink large files before uploading. Consider green cloud providers like Alibaba Cloud or Google Cloud with renewable energy commitments in Singapore. Keep frequently used files on a WD Elements portable hard drive (around S$89 at Challenger) instead of constantly accessing them from the cloud. For serious digital storage, Synology NAS systems (available at Sim Lim Square) help organize your files at home.

Better Email Habits

Your overflowing inbox uses more energy than you might think. A Carbon Literacy Project study estimates that sending an email with a large attachment could generate up to 50g CO2e. Take time to unsubscribe from promotional emails you never read, especially from those Orchard Road shops you visited once! Use Filemail.com for sending large files instead of clogging inboxes with attachments. Try CleanFox (free app) to declutter your Singapore email accounts all at once. Switch to plain text emails when you don't need fancy formatting. And think twice before hitting "reply all" - does everyone really need to see your "Thanks!" message?

Energy-Efficient Video Calls

With Singapore's work-from-home culture, video calls use lots of bandwidth and electricity. According to Purdue University research, one hour of video conferencing can generate 150-1000g of CO2. Turn off your video during morning calls when you're not fully presentable yet (we've all been there after the school run!). Consider Jabra Speak 510 speakerphones (around S$149 at Lazada) for audio-only meetings with good sound quality. Most Singapore internet connections handle 720p video fine - no need for energy-hungry 1080p for routine calls. Use Fellow.app to combine multiple meeting agendas and reduce back-to-back Zoom sessions. Close bandwidth-heavy apps like Spotify or Netflix during video calls to save energy.

Making It Happen

Realistic Goals

Tracking Progress

Monitor your impact by comparing SP bills month-to-month or using a Schneider Wiser Energy Monitor (about S$299 at Home-Fix) that connects to your smartphone. Note whenever you print something to become more conscious of paper use. Weigh your office trash weekly with kitchen scales from NTUC (around S$15) to see your progress. Take before-and-after photos of sustainable purchases - that Herman Miller Aeron chair might cost S$1,899, but it lasts 20+ years compared to replacing cheap chairs every 2 years according to Herman Miller research. The Carbon Footprint Calculator app by WWF Singapore shows your savings from going green.

Continuous Improvement

This is an ongoing process. Schedule 30 minutes quarterly in your calendar (TimeTree is a free option) to review what's working. Follow Green Is The New Black and Secondsguru for Singapore-relevant sustainability tips. If your energy-saving efforts aren't working, consider an LG Dual Inverter Aircon (starts at S$1,099 but uses up to 70% less electricity according to LG) - worth it during our hot seasons! Join Sustainable Singapore Facebook groups to share experiences - I found my bamboo organizers through a recommendation there. Visit The Green Collective SG in Funan Mall for inspiration and eco-friendly ideas.

Answer

Creating a Sustainable Home Office

Working from home in Singapore offers a perfect opportunity to create an eco-friendly workspace. With a few thoughtful changes, you can reduce your environmental impact, boost productivity, and trim your utility bills.

Environmental Impact

Your home office affects the environment in subtle but significant ways. A Carbon Trust study shows that your devices consume energy throughout the day, increasing both your carbon footprint and monthly bills.

Beyond energy use, home offices generate waste from stationery and packaging. E-waste is particularly concerning—the NEA reports that Singapore produces about 60,000 tonnes annually. And in our tropical climate, air conditioning during work hours adds another layer of environmental impact.

Benefits of Going Green

A sustainable home office offers tangible benefits. You'll notice immediate savings on your SP Group bill by using energy-efficient devices. The Energy Market Authority highlights that air conditioning typically makes up 36% of household electricity consumption—a figure you can significantly reduce.

Adding plants like money plants and peace lilies not only brightens your space but improves air quality. A NASA study confirmed their air-purifying abilities, which is especially valuable in our urban environment. Plus, you'll be contributing to Singapore's Green Plan 2030 goals while creating a more productive workspace.

Smart Energy Solutions

The technology you choose significantly impacts both your utility bills and environmental footprint. Consider ASUS ExpertBook B9 laptops or MacBook Airs, which consume about 80% less energy than typical desktops according to Energy Star. These options also handle Singapore's humidity remarkably well.

Simple habits make a big difference too. Set devices to "sleep" after 5-10 minutes of inactivity, and actually switch off your computer at day's end. Unplugging chargers when not in use prevents phantom power drain, or use TP-Link Tapo smart plugs (S$15-25) to manage equipment automatically. The SP Utilities app helps track your progress and identifies opportunities to reduce consumption further.

Maximizing Natural Resources

Take advantage of Singapore's abundant natural light by positioning your desk near windows—just angle it to avoid the harsh midday sun. Light-colored furniture like IKEA's white BEKANT desk helps reflect light throughout your space.

For those bright Singapore afternoons, install adjustable blinds such as IKEA's HOPPVALS or locally-available bamboo blinds that filter light without blocking it completely. After sundown, choose energy-efficient lighting like the Xiaomi Mi LED Desk Lamp Pro (around S$69), which uses 75% less energy than traditional bulbs according to NEA. For a comprehensive solution, Philips Hue smart lighting automatically adjusts based on natural light levels, providing optimal illumination while minimizing energy use.

Sustainable Office Setup

Eco-Friendly Furniture

Sustainable Supplies

Reducing Digital Carbon Footprint

Cloud Storage Habits

Your digital files have an environmental impact too. Data centers consume about 1% of global electricity according to a 2018 study. Try these simple habits:

Schedule a monthly "digital declutter day" to remove unnecessary files (goodbye, 500 food photos from Jewel Changi!)

Use WeCompress (free online) to shrink files before uploading them

Consider eco-friendly cloud options like Google Cloud with renewable energy commitments in Singapore

Store frequently-accessed files on a WD Elements portable hard drive (S$89 at Challenger) instead of constantly retrieving them from the cloud

Email Efficiency

That overflowing inbox consumes more energy than you think. The Carbon Literacy Project found that emails with large attachments can generate up to 50g CO2e each.

Take 15 minutes to unsubscribe from those promotional emails you never read (especially from that Orchard Road shop you visited once three years ago!)

Use Filemail.com for sharing large files instead of email attachments

Try CleanFox to quickly declutter multiple email accounts

Before hitting "reply all," ask yourself: "Does everyone really need to see my 'Thanks!' message?"

Smarter Video Calls

Purdue University research shows that one hour of video conferencing can generate 150-1000g of CO2. With our WFH culture in Singapore, small changes add up:

Turn off your camera during morning calls when you're not quite presentable yet (we've all been there after the school run!)

Consider a Jabra Speak 510 (S$149 at Lazada) for audio-only meetings

Set your video quality to 720p – most Singapore connections handle this fine, and it uses much less bandwidth than 1080p

Close hungry background apps like Spotify or Netflix during important calls

Making It Happen

Start Small, Think Big

Begin with achievable goals that won't overwhelm you:

Aim to cut your energy bill by 10-15% – a StarHub SmartEnergy device (S$199) can identify which devices are the energy hogs

Reduce your waste by half with IKEA's SORTERA bins (S$19.90) – perfect for small Singapore apartments

Challenge yourself: Go paperless for a month using Notion and CamScanner

Keep your tech for at least 3-4 years – visit Sustainable Living Lab's repair cafes to extend their life

Track Your Progress

Seeing your impact provides motivation to continue:

Compare your SP bills month-to-month or use a Schneider Wiser Energy Monitor (S$299)

Keep a log of how often you print something – awareness often leads to reduction

Weigh your office trash weekly with kitchen scales from NTUC (S$15)

Document sustainable purchases with before/after photos – that Herman Miller chair might cost S$1,899, but it replaces 5+ cheap chairs over its lifetime

Keep Improving

Sustainability is a journey, not a destination:

Schedule quarterly 30-minute reviews in your calendar (I use TimeTree – it's free!)

Follow local resources like Green Is The New Black for Singapore-specific tips

If your current setup isn't working, consider investing in an LG Dual Inverter Aircon – lifesaver during our hot seasons!

Join Sustainable Singapore Facebook groups – I found my favorite bamboo organizers through a member's recommendation

The best part? Once you start making these changes, you'll wonder why you didn't do it sooner! Your home office will feel fresher, your bills will be lower, and you might find yourself sharing tips with colleagues during your next Zoom call. It's good for both your productivity and our planet!

Final Answer

Creating a Sustainable Home Office

Environmental Impact

Benefits of Going Green

Smart Energy Solutions

Maximizing Natural Resources

Sustainable Office Setup

Eco-Friendly Furniture

Sustainable Supplies

Reducing Digital Carbon Footprint

Cloud Storage Habits

Your digital files have an environmental impact too. Data centers consume about 1% of global electricity according to a 2018 study. Try these simple habits:

Schedule a monthly "digital declutter day" to remove unnecessary files (goodbye, 500 food photos from Jewel Changi!)

Use WeCompress (free online) to shrink files before uploading them

Consider eco-friendly cloud options like Google Cloud with renewable energy commitments in Singapore

Store frequently-accessed files on a WD Elements portable hard drive (S$89 at Challenger) instead of constantly retrieving them from the cloud

Email Efficiency

That overflowing inbox consumes more energy than you think. The Carbon Literacy Project found that emails with large attachments can generate up to 50g CO2e each.

Take 15 minutes to unsubscribe from those promotional emails you never read (especially from that Orchard Road shop you visited once three years ago!)

Use Filemail.com for sharing large files instead of email attachments

Try CleanFox to quickly declutter multiple email accounts

Before hitting "reply all," ask yourself: "Does everyone really need to see my 'Thanks!' message?"

Smarter Video Calls

Purdue University research shows that one hour of video conferencing can generate 150-1000g of CO2. With our WFH culture in Singapore, small changes add up:

Turn off your camera during morning calls when you're not quite presentable yet (we've all been there after the school run!)

Consider a Jabra Speak 510 (S$149 at Lazada) for audio-only meetings

Set your video quality to 720p – most Singapore connections handle this fine, and it uses much less bandwidth than 1080p

Close hungry background apps like Spotify or Netflix during important calls

Making It Happen

Start Small, Think Big

Begin with achievable goals that won't overwhelm you:

Aim to cut your energy bill by 10-15% – a StarHub SmartEnergy device (S$199) can identify which devices are the energy hogs

Reduce your waste by half with IKEA's SORTERA bins (S$19.90) – perfect for small Singapore apartments

Challenge yourself: Go paperless for a month using Notion and CamScanner

Keep your tech for at least 3-4 years – visit Sustainable Living Lab's repair cafes to extend their life

Track Your Progress

Seeing your impact provides motivation to continue:

Compare your SP bills month-to-month or use a Schneider Wiser Energy Monitor (S$299)

Keep a log of how often you print something – awareness often leads to reduction

Weigh your office trash weekly with kitchen scales from NTUC (S$15)

Document sustainable purchases with before/after photos – that Herman Miller chair might cost S$1,899, but it replaces 5+ cheap chairs over its lifetime

Keep Improving

Sustainability is a journey, not a destination:

Schedule quarterly 30-minute reviews in your calendar (I use TimeTree – it's free!)

Follow local resources like Green Is The New Black for Singapore-specific tips

If your current setup isn't working, consider investing in an LG Dual Inverter Aircon – lifesaver during our hot seasons!

Join Sustainable Singapore Facebook groups – I found my favorite bamboo organizers through a member's recommendation

Another thing upon consideration is to always consider who you primary audience are, so you may need to re-prompt and repeat the whole process again.

Not forgetting that if you are turning your post into a sharable link to other social media, there has to be a structure to write copy for individual medium.

Blog Post

Table view

Name

Copy for Linkedin

Copy for IG

Creating a Sustainable Home Office

🌱 Creating a Sustainable Home Office 🌱

In today’s remote work culture, your home office can be a green sanctuary! Here are some actionable tips to turn your workspace into an eco-friendly haven:

1. Reduce Energy Consumption: Switch to energy-efficient devices like ASUS ExpertBook laptops, and utilize smart plugs to manage your energy use effectively.

2. Embrace Natural Light: Position your desk near windows to harness Singapore’s abundant sunlight, while using light-colored furniture to enhance brightness.

3. Eco-Friendly Furniture: Invest in sustainable pieces from brands like Scanteak and HipVan that suit our humid climate. Consider pre-loved items for a stylish and earth-friendly workspace!

4. Conscious Digital Habits: Schedule regular digital declutters, use eco-friendly cloud services, and remember that your email habits can also impact energy consumption.

5. Track Your Progress: Monitor your energy bills and waste reduction efforts to see your impact grow!

By making small, thoughtful changes, you can create a productive workspace that’s kind to our planet. Let’s build a greener future together! 🌍✨

#Sustainability #HomeOffice #EcoFriendly #GreenLiving #RemoteWork

🌱✨ Creating a Sustainable Home Office! ✨🌱

Transform your workspace into an eco-friendly haven with simple changes that reduce your carbon footprint & boost productivity!

💡 Use energy-efficient devices and embrace natural light.
🪴 Add plants for better air quality.
📦 Opt for recycled supplies and eco-friendly furniture.

Join the green movement—your wallet and the planet will thank you! Let's make a difference together! 💚💪

#SustainableLiving #HomeOffice #EcoFriendly #GoGreen #Productivity #Singapore

Notion AI Content Creation : The Fundamentals

Notion AI Content Creation Fundamentals

Understanding Notion AI capabilities and limitations

Notion AI excels at drafting, summarizing, and transforming content, but requires human guidance for factual accuracy and creativity. It can generate initial drafts, restructure information, and suggest improvements, but cannot replace human judgment or domain expertise. Effective users understand what tasks to delegate to AI versus what requires human input.

Setting up your workspace for AI-assisted content creation

Create dedicated sections in your Notion workspace with templates that incorporate AI prompts. Organize your content pipeline with databases that track ideas, drafts, and published pieces. Design custom AI prompt templates for different content types (blog posts, newsletters, social media) to maintain consistency. Establish a clear workflow that defines when and how AI assistance is integrated into your creation process.

Best practices for prompt engineering in Notion

Craft specific, detailed prompts that include context about your audience, tone, and purpose. Use the "continue writing" function strategically by providing strong opening paragraphs. Implement iterative prompting - start general, then refine with more specific instructions. Save successful prompts as templates for future use. Always review and edit AI-generated content to align with your voice and verify accuracy.

Writing with Notion AI

Writing with Notion AI involves leveraging the tool's capabilities to create, refine, and enhance various types of content. Here's how to make the most of Notion AI for your writing needs:

Drafting blog posts, articles, and newsletters

Notion AI helps you create content faster by making first drafts from your ideas. Start with a simple outline, then give AI clear instructions to create content that matches what you want. For example, try typing: "Write a blog post about productivity tips for remote workers in a friendly tone with practical examples." The best results come from telling AI who your readers are, what tone to use, and what specific information to include.

For newsletters, you can prompt Notion AI to create different sections like news roundups, feature stories, or educational content. Always review AI-generated drafts carefully, adding your unique insights and personal touches to make the content authentically yours.

Refining and polishing existing content

Beyond creating drafts, Notion AI excels at improving existing content. Use it to:

Enhance readability by simplifying complex sentences and improving flow

Correct grammar and punctuation issues

Suggest alternative phrasings to avoid repetition

Adjust tone to better match your brand voice or target audience

The most effective approach is to work iteratively—write your content, ask Notion AI to refine specific aspects, then review and further customize the suggestions. You might prompt: "Make this paragraph more engaging while maintaining its professional tone" or "Simplify this explanation for a beginner audience."

Creating summaries and expanding on key points

Notion AI can both condense and expand your content as needed. For summarization, it can distill lengthy articles or research papers into concise executive summaries, bullet points, or abstracts. This is particularly useful when preparing content for different channels or audience segments.

When expanding on key points, provide Notion AI with your core ideas and ask it to develop them with examples, statistics, or explanations. For instance: "Expand on this point about remote work communication challenges with practical solutions and real-world examples." This approach helps you quickly flesh out content outlines into comprehensive pieces.

Remember that while Notion AI can generate impressive expansions, you should verify any facts, statistics, or specific claims it produces, as AI may occasionally fabricate information or present outdated data.

Creating Visual and Structured Content

Designing tables and databases with AI assistance
Generating templates for consistent content
Organizing information with AI-suggested categories

Productivity Techniques with Notion AI

Overcoming writer's block with AI prompts
Batch content creation workflows
Maintaining your voice while leveraging AI tools

Building a Sustainable Notion AI Practice

Balancing AI assistance with human creativity
Developing systems for content review and refinement
Future-proofing your content strategy

Workflow integration: Combining Notion AI with other tools and processes

Efficiency gains: Reducing time spent on routine content tasks

Content experimentation: Testing new formats and approaches with AI support

Quality improvement: Using AI feedback to enhance your writing skills

Effective Prompt Structures for Notion Database Property Autofill

Crafting effective prompts for Notion AI to auto-populate database properties can significantly streamline your workflow. Here are structured prompt templates you can use:

Basic Property Extraction Prompts

These prompts help extract specific information from content to fill properties:


Extract the [property type] from this content:
[paste content]
Format as: [desired format]
Use these categories: [list of allowed values if applicable]

Example:


Extract the main topic and subtopics from this article:
[paste article]
Format as: Main topic: [topic], Subtopics: [comma-separated list]

Categorical Property Assignment

For multi-select or select properties that need categorization:


Analyze this content and assign the most relevant categories:
[paste content]
Choose from: [list of available categories]
Limit to: [number] categories maximum
Prioritize based on: [main themes/primary focus/etc.]

Example:


Analyze this blog post and assign the most relevant categories:
[paste blog post]
Choose from: Marketing, SEO, Content Strategy, Social Media, Analytics, Email Marketing
Limit to: 3 categories maximum
Prioritize based on the primary focus of the content

Status and Progress Tracking

For properties that track workflow status:


Based on this content, determine the appropriate project status:
[paste content or project description]
Choose from: [list of status options]
Consider these factors: [timeline mentions, completion indicators, etc.]

Example:


Based on this update, determine the appropriate project status:
[paste project update]
Choose from: Not Started, In Progress, Review, Complete, On Hold
Consider these factors: mentioned deadlines, completed tasks, blocker references

Date and Timeline Extraction

For date properties that need automatic assignment:


Extract all [deadline/event/publication] dates from this content:
[paste content]
Format as: YYYY-MM-DD
If multiple dates found, prioritize [earliest/latest/most emphasized] date
If no explicit date found, suggest a reasonable date based on [context clues]

Example:


Extract all deadline dates from this project brief:
[paste brief]
Format as: YYYY-MM-DD
If multiple dates found, prioritize the final delivery date
If no explicit date found, suggest a reasonable date based on scope and urgency indicators

Person Assignment Prompts

For assigning team members to tasks:


Identify the most appropriate team member(s) for this task:
[paste task description]
Team members: [list team members and their roles/expertise]
Consider: [specific skills needed, workload, previous experience]
Format response as: Primary: [name], Support: [names if applicable]

Summarization for Property Fields

For creating concise summaries or descriptions:


Create a [length] summary of this content for the [property name] field:
[paste content]
Maximum length: [character or word count]
Focus on: [key aspects to highlight]
Tone: [professional/casual/technical/etc.]

Example:


Create a brief summary of this research paper for the "Key Insights" field:
[paste research paper]
Maximum length: 150 characters
Focus on: methodology and primary findings
Tone: technical but accessible

Combined Multi-Property Extraction

For efficiently filling multiple properties at once:


Extract the following properties from this content:
[paste content]

Properties to extract:
1. [Property 1 name]: [format instructions]
2. [Property 2 name]: [format instructions]
3. [Property 3 name]: [format instructions]

Additional guidelines: [any special instructions]

Example:


Extract the following properties from this article:
[paste article]

Properties to extract:
1. Title: Create a compelling title under 10 words
2. Categories: Choose 2-3 from [list of categories]
3. Reading Time: Estimate in minutes based on word count
4. Target Audience: Identify primary audience segment
5. Key Takeaway: Single sentence summary of main point

Additional guidelines: Ensure consistency with our brand voice and focus on actionable insights

Tips for Better Prompt Results

To maximize the effectiveness of your property autofill prompts:

Be specific about formats and constraints (character limits, number of items, etc.)

Provide examples of desired outputs when introducing new prompt patterns

Include contextual information about your database's purpose and how properties relate

Use consistent prompt structures across similar properties for better learning

Test prompts with different content types to ensure versatility

Iterate on prompts that don't produce desired results by adding clarifying details

Create a prompt library in Notion to easily reuse successful patterns

Remember that the best prompts are clear, specific, and provide enough context for Notion AI to understand exactly what you need extracted or generated for each property field.