Section 1.1: The Journey of Productivity

Many articles on productivity echo a similar sentiment, often discussing transitions from one application or system to another. Personally, I enjoy learning about others' productivity experiences, particularly when they have a straightforward foundation.

As someone who has battled the allure of new tools and distractions, I initially avoided complex productivity methods. I believed simplicity was key. A principle from Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous states, "the simpler we keep our food, the greater our freedom." This philosophy can also apply to productivity systems; just remember that simplicity may evolve over time.

After investing countless hours into creating and perfecting a plain text productivity system tailored to my thinking style, I thought I had achieved a comprehensive solution. I even crafted an 11-minute tutorial to guide others. However, the system eventually ceased to function for me, and I couldn't pinpoint why.

Ultimately, I discovered that I required a much simpler version of my original framework—a weekly log. As for what tomorrow holds? It's uncertain.

Lesson: Don't hesitate to move on from a project that once captivated you. Archive it for future reference, but focus on utilizing what you currently need rather than what was once essential.

A Cautionary Note

This should not be interpreted as an excuse to become overly fixated on your system at the expense of its intended purpose. Always keep your goals in mind and build the simplest vehicle to achieve them, adapting to your current circumstances.

Of course, you can embellish your system if that brings you joy, but be wary of the time-consuming trap that excessive complexity can create.

Section 1.2: The Importance of Personalization

You might be wondering if I will provide specific instructions on rebuilding your system. The answer is somewhat ambiguous.

Adopting my system as your own is as sensible as trying to fit into a Medium-sized coat when you truly wear a Small. There is merit in experimenting with others’ approaches, but be sure to assess them quickly. Don't invest too much time or resources until you find a fit that accommodates both your current needs and future flexibility.

Alright, I will share how to reconstruct a productivity system that no longer suits you, but you may not appreciate the method (Spoiler: that's the intention).

Step 1: Simplify Your Tools

Put aside all non-essential productivity applications, retaining only a digital calendar, a straightforward notebook (either paper or digital), and a task manager—provided the latter is well-established and isn't contributing to your system's breakdown.

For users of Obsidian or Logseq, this may require disabling any advanced plugins temporarily. Document everything you need to remember on a simple piece of paper or a basic notes app. If those tools are distracting, choose something even more unembellished.

I personally utilize a Moleskine cahier for physical notes and Drafts for digital ones. If I aim for minimalism, I turn to TextEdit in plain text mode.

Depending on your job's demands, returning to basic pen-and-paper methods can be tremendously beneficial. As Tony mentioned, "Right now I’m actually finding a legal pad best as a way to keep notes on ideas I want to follow up on in a meeting."

How long can you function with just a notebook?

Step 2: Identify Friction Points and Patterns

If your productivity needs are pressing, you'll soon find a single-page approach frustrating—excellent! That’s your cue to delve deeper.

Channel your inner detective: what aspects of your system create friction? Identify bottlenecks and recurring patterns. If you find yourself yearning for previous tools, jot down what those tools provided that your current method lacks.

If your former system could accommodate a need your new setup can't, draft a "job description" for potential applications or systems. You’ll need this list for Step 4, to conduct evaluations!

Step 3: Establish Your Non-Negotiables

What productivity principles are you committed to? Your list can be as short as one item or as extensive as ten. It can encompass app features or the emotional experience of using them. This list will serve as your guiding star.

Additionally, note what you don’t want from your productivity system. For example: - I don’t want my productivity system to overshadow the work it should support. - I prefer a low-maintenance system that can withstand periods of neglect.

By clarifying what you don’t want, your desires for what you do want become clearer.

Step 4: Evaluate Potential Tools

Before integrating any tool or system beyond a simple paper or basic digital note, treat it as if you’re interviewing a potential hire. Use the lists created in Step 3 for evaluation.

And You’re Done! …For Now

Achieving a temporary state of completion is a wonderful place to be! Relish it. Then, as situations evolve, adapt and simplify. Seek advice from those who have traversed this path but remember that their guidance may not fit you perfectly from the outset.

This advice extends beyond task and project management—it applies equally to writing and programming workflows.

To Summarize: - Understand that tasks are completed for the moment, not indefinitely. - When systems fail, approach their reconstruction with calmness. - Avoid becoming overly attached to a system that no longer serves you. - Remain cautious of unnecessary complexities; simplicity is key. - Revert to basics when distractions arise or when systems cease to function.