A simple, four table system I am using for for last 4 months . You can find the template here for free — just duplicate the template.
For almost an year, I am using Notion. I started using it as a ‘cleaner Google Doc,’ later it became my Wiki of choice, and from April as I moved to a new job, I started using it as my planner, task manager, to-do list, and bookmark manager.
Last week I spent some time and made a template framework based on my current setup, which I call ‘Focus Dashboard.’ It’s a simple system that follows concepts from Getting Things Done, Bullet Journal, Resonance calendar and tons of blogs I read. Also, the template allows you to create a simplified Zettelkasten/Slip Box.
Here is how I do it.
The template has four primary databases — Inbox, Objectives, Task List, and Slip box.
Database Inbox
Inbox is the bookmark/resource/knowledge manager. Use Notion Web clipper and add all resources to it. The tags allow you to categorize the content.
Objectives contain a list of you define your goals. Break your big projects into definite objectives. You can create ‘Epic’ to club your objectives under one roof.
Task List contains things you have to work. Add all ‘tasks,’ link it to a specific objective, and tag it to a Due Date / DO Date. Add any references, related documents, and inspirations — add that to the Inbox and link it to the task as References. That’s it! Now get it done, and once done, make sure you check the done.
That’s all. Now strategize your objectives (or Define your goals), add them to Objectives database, create related tasks. Keep using Web clipper to add references and inspirations to Inbox, link those to specific task tickets, and get things done!
Now coming to the Dashboard, it’s a simple page that provides access to a list of all sub pages (left column) and shows the task list in the calendar view. Also, there is another reference table below that lists all inbox items without a tag, so that you can tag and provide some context! — (Notion, Web Clipper needs this as a feature, like Evernote.)
The Slip Box/Zettelkasten
I loved the Zettlekasten method / Slip Box on the first reading. The clarity in thought process and how that system is build inspired me. But moving to a tool like Roam or Emacs org-roam felt like a tedious task. Hence I copied three concepts from the Slip box method — 1. Create atomic notes in your own words 2. Add meta-information about the source. 3. Link notes to each other.
In this Simple Slip Box, you add Notes to the table, add keywords. Add sources to Inbox (I add Kindle Highlights to Inbox with loc number, one file per book) and link to that.