In this interview, Mustafa takes us through his discovery of Notion, driven by a passion for efficiency and a knack for database management. He shares insights into his daily routine, balancing a rigorous work schedule with his personal projects, and his approach to designing Notion templates that are not just functional but also intuitively simple.

Q: Mustafa, how did your journey with Notion begin? What was it that particularly drew you to this tool?

A: It all started while I was exploring YouTube for ways to streamline my content creation process. As a social media manager, automating content creation and publishing is crucial for me. My background in Excel and database management made Notion a natural fit. Its ability to speed up my content creation workflow was a game-changer.

Q: What sparked your interest in becoming a creator, particularly for Notion templates?

A: I’ve been selling digital products on platforms like Etsy, and I realized that creating and selling Notion templates was a seamless extension of this. I noticed a real need for tools that help people maximize their day. I believe in giving back and adding value to others’ lives, even if they are from different backgrounds. It’s all about creating a positive impact.

Q: Could you describe a typical day in your life?

A: My day starts early at 5 a.m. with a cold shower to energize myself, followed by breakfast and some reading. Then I dive into my main job for about 4 hours. I take a midday break to catch up on news and connect with friends. Post-lunch, I return to work for another couple of hours. My evenings are dedicated to my personal projects, including digital product creation and engaging on Twitter. I make sure to unwind for three hours before my bedtime at 9 p.m.

Q: When developing a new Notion template or tool, what’s your approach?

A: I start by identifying the core problem and breaking it down into smaller, manageable solutions. These solutions are then woven together into a cohesive system that addresses the problem from multiple angles. My focus is on making templates user-friendly and comprehensive, targeting time management, effort reduction, and productivity enhancement.

Q: How do you keep up with the fast-evolving world of productivity tools and AI?

A: I subscribe to tech and AI newsletters and follow experts on social media. Whenever I encounter something new, I research it thoroughly to understand it from all angles. Product Hunt is also a valuable resource for keeping abreast of the latest in tech and AI.

Q: Are there any current trends in productivity and technology that you’re excited about?

A: While nothing specific has caught my eye, I am keen on exploring how artificial intelligence can enhance human productivity and, of course, the potential financial benefits it brings.

Q: What advice would you give to someone aspiring to create their own Notion templates or tools?

A: Start by learning, then move on to creating, testing, and publishing. I notice many creators recycle ideas without striving to innovate. My advice is to aim for creating better solutions rather than just replicating existing ones.

Q: What’s your go-to method for relaxation and de-stressing?

A: Reading is my sanctuary. Whether I’m feeling down or joyful, I find solace in books. I also enjoy movies and series as a way to take my mind off things.

Q: Can you share a personal goal or dream you’re currently working towards?

A: My primary goal this year is to boost my monthly income from 30k to 50k. I also plan to get married mid-year, although that’s contingent on several factors related to my day job.

As our insightful conversation with Mustafa comes to a close, it’s clear that his journey is one of relentless pursuit and transformative growth. From the streets of Palestine to the vibrant culture of Turkey, his story is a testament to adaptability, perseverance, and the power of dreaming big.

Balancing professional ambitions with personal goals, Mustafa’s future shines bright with potential. Whether it’s scaling his monthly income, exploring the uncharted territories of AI, or finding joy in reading and cinema, his aspirations are as diverse as his talents.