Unlock Your Day: How I Automate Hours of Work with One Button
Well, 32 buttons actually....
Picture this, a 32-button panel with buttons that are all designed to turn tedious tasks into automated workflows. Emails, data analysis, scheduling—it’s all done in one tap. This setup doesn’t just save time; it gives you more mental space for creativity and building authentic connections.
So, I took video streaming hardware good for inserting sound effects, memes or to display a title for a live video stream and instead, I'm using it to win my time back and to create more professional results in the process.
What.... prompted me (pun intended) me to do this? Well, a few years ago as an aspiring travel YouTuber I purchased a wide range of equipment to get me on the way to internet stardom! Well, that didn't work so well. I had a great time and learned a lot while traveling the world, but I never made enough money to even cover my costs.
Darn, all of this wasted time and money on this equipment... or was it? I had an idea, what if I can re-task some of my gear for productivity? 3-years ago, I did just that and this is the first time I'm sharing the secret of how I do it. As AI tools have improved, you can get repeatable professional results that in a fraction of the time.
Why did I take my fun Livestreaming hardware and turn it into a productivity tool? First, it was very easy to do and I'll show you exactly how below. However; like some of you, I find myself writing the same types of emails, AI prompts or doing repetitive tasks over and over. So, I started looking for ways to re-use prompts I use often.
Here is the high level overview and I'll get into the step-by-step details for you.
What Is the Elgato Stream Deck?
The Elgato Stream Deck is a customizable control panel, originally built for streamers but perfect for professionals. There are large 32 button options like I use but also smaller and less expensive versions. You can create as many pages as you like so even a small Stream Deck is powerful. Each button on the deck is programmable, and with the right setup, one tap can launch complex tasks—whether it’s scheduling a meeting, analyzing data, or sending personalized emails. Think of it as your very own productivity launchpad.
Keyboard Meistro (Mac) or AutoHotKey (Windows): The software that connects with streamdeck that stores all of your prompts
Keyboard Maestro is a powerful macOS app or use AutoHotkey which works similarly for Windows. Either software allows you link your text prompts to Elgato Stream Deck buttons.
Setting Up the Elgato Stream Deck + Keyboard Maestro
Mac
1. Install the Software: Start by downloading and installing the Elgato Stream Deck software https://www.elgato.com/ww/en/s/downloads or for Windows AutoHotKey:
2. Keyboard Maestro (Mac): https://www.keyboardmaestro.com/main/
3. Install the KMLink plugin for the Elgato Streamdeck software (Mac) (This connects the macros you make in Keyboard Meistro with the Streamdeck software: https://marketplace.elgato.com/product/kmlink-00461192-91a1-4a50-949e-73067be6642e
Windows
This simple tool allows you to directly link to text files and may be the easiest way to get started: https://marketplace.elgato.com/product/supermacro-62195fec-7bcb-403d-b650-c342e9dfec67
AutoHotKey is a similar but perhaps more powerful tool for Windows. The software can be used at a simple level but also has advanced options: https://www.autohotkey.com/
SuperMacro, you need this plugin to connect AutoHotKey to your Stream Deck: https://marketplace.elgato.com/product/supermacro-62195fec-7bcb-403d-b650-c342e9dfec67
Now you can crete your AI Prompt: Open ChatGPT and craft a prompt that you’ll use repeatedly, such as:
Prompt: This is a prompt to make a quick email response by simply highlighting the entire email thread and pasting it into the end of the prompt within ChatGPT
This is the prompt:
'Hi ChatGPT, I’d like to respond to this email in a professional but friendly and witty tone. Please include my Calendly link for scheduling a meeting and make the response engaging. Here’s the info you need:
Now, please generate a response based on the original email provided below:
领英推荐
Insert original email or email thread here' <-- (This is where you copy/paste the email thread).
Next, Copy/Paste this macro into Keyboard Maestro or AutoHotKey:
Last: Create your button inside the Elgato Stream Deck software: Remember Mac Users you need the KMLink addon or Windows users you need the SuperMacro add-on linked above in the article. Then, just drag and drop into the place you want your button to appear.
Drag and drop the KMLink or SuperMacro icon to the button you wish to assign it to.
That's it, you are done and can repeat for any macro you would like!
So, let's try it out.
Let's Test it inside ChatGPT:
Here is a long email thread asking for help on a recruiting project.
Now, the result:
Why This System Works
It’s not about using AI to replace your human touch—it’s about enhancing your voice and workflow. By automating tasks that typically eat up hours, you’re able to create space for deeper work, creative thinking, and authentic connections.
AI + Human Touch AI doesn’t steal your authenticity. It makes sure you’re not drowning in busywork, freeing up your time to focus on building meaningful relationships.
Maximizing Efficiency, Not Replacing It With a system like this, you’re not just scaling productivity, you’re doing it thoughtfully. Each button is a gateway to saved time and more precise work—whether it’s data analysis, email outreach, or scheduling.
How This Setup Gives You Time Back
Instead of getting bogged down by mundane tasks, I’m able to use that time to focus on things that actually matter—whether it’s high-level strategy or just taking a moment to step away from the desk. Less admin work, more life.
Efficiency Fuels Creativity When you automate the mundane, it doesn’t kill creativity—it unlocks it. With routine tasks handled, your mind is free to focus on the big ideas and meaningful work that move the needle.
I am Rob Pruitt and if you enjoy articles like this please feel free to follow me and connect. My mission is to offer a visionary approach at the intersection of AI-powered recruitment and systems that streamline growth for solopreneurs and innovative companies. With a strong focus on authentic personal branding, audience building, and creative frameworks, I work to lead a movement of reality creators who are transforming the digital landscape.
#ArtificialIntelligence, #ProductivityHacks, #StreamDeck, #WorkflowAutomation, #AIinAction, #EfficiencyMatters, #TechInnovation, #DigitalTransformation, #SolopreneurLife, #CreativityUnleashed, #AIandAutomation, #StreamliningSuccess
Consultant supporting Companies with workforce Planning and thought leadership
1 个月Robert, your ingenuity amazes me and it’s great to see your old passions turn into new passions
LinkedIn Engagement Specialist @ evyAI | Empowering Brands to Build Connections & Relationships
1 个月Rob Pruitt, love how you highlight the balance between creativity and efficiency! Automating tasks really does free up time for what matters most.