This is the part where I keep things moving without overthinking them
The goal here is not maximum productivity. It’s clarity and low mental overhead.
Notes and Knowledge
My main thinking space is Obsidian. This is where long-term notes, ideas, drafts, and references live. I keep it simple and avoid complex plugins. If something needs structure, I add it later.
Apple Notes is used only for quick capture. Things that matter get moved into Obsidian. Things that don’t usually disappear on their own.
For reading and saving links, I use Miniflux for RSS and Linkwarden for bookmarks. Articles, posts, and random links flow into these tools instead of piling up in open tabs.
Tasks and Planning
Day-to-day tasks are handled with Apple Reminders. I don’t run a complex task system.
If a task takes less than a few minutes, I just do it. If it needs a reminder, it goes into Reminders. Anything bigger usually turns into a note or a small project.
Automation
For automation, I use n8n. It runs self-hosted and handles small workflows that glue things together.
Examples include:
- Sending saved links to Linkwarden
- Bots that notify me when something changes
- Small scheduled checks and reminders
Most automations are boring by design. If they need constant fixing, they get removed.
Bots and Side Flows
I use a few simple bots, mostly on Telegram. They do very specific things and stay out of the way.
If a bot grows beyond a single purpose, it usually means it should be a proper service or be deleted.
How Information Flows
I try to keep clear boundaries:
- Capture fast
- Decide later
- Store only what’s useful
RSS feeds, bookmarks, notes, and tasks each have a single home. When tools overlap, I usually remove one.
What I Avoid
I avoid building complex productivity systems. I don’t aim for perfect inbox zero or detailed dashboards.
If a system needs constant attention to stay useful, it’s probably not helping.
What’s Next
The next part of the series will focus on security and privacy. That’s where many of these choices come together.
As always, this stack isn’t meant to be copied. It’s just the result of removing things until what’s left feels easy to maintain.