The ChatGPT Productivity Playbook: 15 Ideas to Explore This Week

This is a menu of actionable ideas you can start using right now.

Ever feel like you’re just scratching the surface of what ChatGPT can do? You’re not alone.

I'm fascinated by the way my friends and clients use it, I learn so much from them.

This week, I’m handing you a menu—a collection of prompts, features, and tools that can immediately unlock new ways to use AI in your workflow.

Whether you’re here for smarter writing, quicker research, creative projects, or just learning what’s possible, you’ll find something here to try.

Pick a few.

Experiment.

Let me know what clicks for you.

Let’s go!

1. Prompting Like a Pro: Make ChatGPT Help You Get Better at ChatGPT

It’s easy to get stuck writing the “perfect” prompt, but here’s the secret: You don’t have to do it alone.

Try this: “Help me improve this prompt: [insert your prompt]. What details should I add or change for a better result?”

Let ChatGPT coach you into stronger, more detailed prompts—because it’s as much about asking the right questions as it is getting the right answers.

2. Beyond Text: Ask ChatGPT About Images

Did you know you can upload images and ask ChatGPT to analyze them? This is where things get fun:

• Upload a chart and ask, “Can you explain this to me in plain language?”

• Snap a photo of ingredients and ask, “What recipe could I make with this?”

Pro Tip: Use the mobile app for on-the-go photos—great for product ideas, research, or quick brainstorming.

3. Custom Instructions: Your Built-In Personal Assistant

Save time by telling ChatGPT who you are, what you care about, and how you want it to respond.

Try this: In ChatGPT Settings → Personalize ChatGPT → Custom Instructions, fill in details like:

• “I’m a digital strategist focused on intuitive AI. My tone is warm and clear.”

ChatGPT will remember, so you don’t have to repeat yourself every time.

4. Pick the Right Model for the Job

Different tasks = different models. Here’s a cheat sheet:

• 4o (free/paid): General tasks, text + image analysis

• 4o mini (free/paid): Fast, simple queries

• 4.5 (paid): Creative, emotionally intelligent writing

• 03 (paid): Complex analysis, multi-step reasoning

5. Edit Faster with Canvas

Canvas combines a chat window with a text editor so you can shape content in real time—no copying, no switching apps.

Try this in Canvas: “Write a 5-point outline for a blog post about [topic]. Make it engaging, with a catchy title.”

If this fits the way you think, this setup is perfect for writing projects, reports, or content creation.

6. Find a Custom GPT for Your Next Challenge

Think of Custom GPTs as expert assistants, preloaded with knowledge for specific tasks.

Explore Explore GPTs in ChatGPT, or try:

• “Find me a Custom GPT that can help with SEO strategy.”

• “What’s a good GPT for creating Instagram captions?”

7. Save Time with Memory

Repetitive tasks? Let ChatGPT remember so you don’t have to repeat yourself.

Example prompt: “Can you remember this: I’m an SEO consultant, and my focus is on helping creators build authority through content. I like clear, friendly language.”

If it hasn't already created a memory, your prompt can help maintain context across sessions.

8. Transform Your Product Photos with AI

Want to create eye-catching product images? Try this:

• Upload a product photo and ask: “Place this bottle of date syrup in a cozy kitchen scene with a wooden table, oatmeal, and fresh berries.”

It’s like having a designer on speed dial.

9. Automate Your Routine with Scheduled Tasks

Let AI take over your repetitive tasks.

Example prompt: “Send me a summary of all major AI news each morning at 9 AM.” Or “Based on what you know about me, what tasks could I automate?”

Automation = time saved for what really matters.

10. Max Out the Mobile App

The mobile app isn’t just a mini version—it’s a powerhouse. Try:

• Snapping a photo of your handwritten notes and turning them into text

• Using voice mode for brainstorming or practicing languages

• Asking for feedback on the go

11. Keep It Private: Manage Your Data and Chat History

For sensitive conversations, turn on Temporary Chat (like Incognito Mode). Or adjust Data Controls in settings to stop sharing your chat data for training.

Your privacy, your choice.

12. Stay Organized: Rename and Search Chats

Simple but essential: Give your chats clear names so you can easily find them later. Use the search bar to quickly locate past ideas, research, or outlines.

Hover over the chat, click the three dot menu and choose Rename. This menu is also where you can archive or delete chats.

13. Use Voice Mode to Talk Through Ideas

Sometimes the fastest way to get clarity is to say it out loud. With the mobile app’s voice feature, you can:

• Brainstorm while walking

• Talk through a stuck point

• Practice your messaging or a tricky conversation

This is great for idea flow, especially when typing feels like a block.

14. Turn Messy Notes into Action Plans

Whether it’s a brain dump, meeting notes, or a half-written idea, ChatGPT can help you organize it into something useful.

Try this: “Here are my notes from a recent planning session. Can you turn this into a clean action plan with dates and priorities?”

It’s like having a project manager in your pocket.

15. Create Your Own Reusable Prompt Library

If you’re using AI regularly, start collecting your best-performing prompts into a reusable set. You can store them in Notion, Google Docs, or even ask ChatGPT to remember them (paid plans).

Example:

• Content creation prompt

• Idea validation prompt

• Offer refinement prompt

• Email template prompt

Organizing these saves time and gives you a reliable starting point for future tasks.

BONUS: The Wildcard Prompt

Sometimes the biggest breakthroughs come from asking better questions. This is one of my favorites for insight and innovation:

Try this prompt: “Based on everything you know about me from our full chat history and memory, give me 10 high-leverage ways I should be using AI that I haven’t yet considered. Prioritize ideas that are tailored to my habits, goals, and work/life patterns—even if they’re unconventional or unexpected.”

You’ll be surprised at what comes back—this is where the magic often starts.

This Week’s Challenge: Pick 1-2 New Tricks and Try Them

Reply and tell me: Which idea are you most excited to try?

And if you’re feeling curious about how your unique thinking style shapes your relationship with AI, check out my System Mystic Quiz - it’s a fun way to discover your archetype and get a free guide to go deeper.

Until next week, stay curious!

Lisa