— A self-checklist

Are You Tech-Ready?

A gentle, honest check — at your own pace.

This is yours to keep. There’s nothing to send back, no score, and no pass mark. Tick what’s already true for you. Wherever an item isn’t ticked yet, that’s simply your next small step — and there’s a hint to help. Wherever you are is a fine place to start.

1. The basics you already have

A smartphone or computer you can use comfortably.Next step: you only need one device to begin — a phone is enough.
An internet connection that’s good enough — even mobile data.
An email address you can open and read.Next step: a free Gmail account takes five minutes to set up.

2. Your accounts & files

You can send and receive email confidently.
You have a free Google account (for Google Drive & Docs).Next step: this is where you’ll store and share your work later.
You can save a file and find it again.

3. Everyday tools

You can use WhatsApp to send messages and files.
You’re comfortable filling in an online form.
You can download and open a PDF.

4. AI tools — the new part

You’ve opened ChatGPT, Claude or Gemini at least once.Next step: all three are free to try — just sign in and say hello.
You’ve asked an AI a real question and read its answer.
You know AI can be confidently wrong — so you check anything important.

5. Staying safe (POPIA)

You use different passwords for your important accounts.
You never put ID numbers, banking details or anyone’s personal information into an AI tool.
You can spot an obvious scam message and leave it alone.

6. Getting paid

You have a South African bank account.
You’ve heard of PayFast — South Africa’s payment gateway.Next step: you’ll only need this once you’re ready to receive money.

Count your ticks if you like — but remember, there’s no pass mark. Every empty box is just your next small step. Pick one, do it this week, and you’re already further than you were yesterday.

Explore The Quiet System™

“You learn to empower, while you can earn.” — SMART-Restart