Chapter 1: The Power of Three Tools

Having just three productivity tools and a digital calendar is all I require to maintain focus. The reason behind this trio is that they stimulate various areas of my brain by presenting my tasks from different perspectives. This frequent shift in viewpoint helps me stay fresh and innovative, preventing feelings of stagnation or distraction.

Using these tools brings me joy (internally, as I’m an introvert), and instills a sense of calm and positivity. This is why they remain on my list, while countless others have been discarded. While I won’t delve into specific applications, two of my tools do involve them, and naturally, I have my favorites.

The three productivity tools that work in harmony with my digital calendar are:

• A paper notebook
• An interactive PDF planner
• A plain text planner

Each of these tools has its unique characteristics, yet they all share a common foundational purpose and are always at my side. When it's time to organize my thoughts, one tool tends to resonate with me more than the others. Whenever I feel a bit off, my paper notebook typically becomes my go-to choice.

Section 1.1: Low Maintenance and Resilience

Excluding appointment calendars, if a productivity tool demands daily or even weekly upkeep, it’s not for me. I appreciate that my trio of tools can sit unused for months yet still prove invaluable when I finally return to them. This is what I refer to as being "abandon-proof."

So why these specific tools instead of the many others that have fallen by the wayside? Simply put, they align perfectly with my personality and preferences. Below are the aspects I value most about each of my three tools.

Subsection 1.1.1: Embracing Paper Over Digital

Paper Notebook

• A large, nearly A5 Moleskine notebook, lined, paired with a Pilot Dr. Grip 4+1 pen.
• Brain Engagement: Writing by hand activates areas of my brain that seem dormant when typing.
• Tactile Experience: Holding a real book is a powerful sensation; I fiercely protect my favorite notebook and pen!
• Creative Freedom: I can write freely, even on lined pages, allowing for unconventional thinking. My messy notebook is a gateway to inspiration.
• Discretion: Writing in a physical notebook is often more appropriate in certain settings, such as funerals or family gatherings.
• Permanence: The ink is permanent; there’s no digital eraser or delete key, which influences my writing style.
• Authenticity: I can't rearrange my words after writing, leaving me with an authentic record of my thoughts. Handwriting reveals nuances in my expression.

Chapter 2: The Interactive PDF Planner

The first video, "The Only 3 Productivity Tools You'll Ever Need," explores essential tools that can revolutionize your workflow.

Handwritten Interactive Planner

• I create my own interactive PDFs using Noteshelf on the iPad with an Apple Pencil. While GoodNotes has more features, I prefer Noteshelf for specific reasons.
• Brain-Body Connection: Writing on glass feels surprisingly natural, especially with the right accessories.
• No Waste: I don’t have to fret about the paper I might waste when brainstorming concepts.
• Flexibility: The ability to move and resize my handwritten notes enhances my workflow.
• Creativity: I design my own planners, allowing me to experiment with various templates.
• Accessibility: My interactive planner is available on all my devices, making it easy to access and back up.

Chapter 3: The Plain Text Planner

The second video, "Best Productivity Apps I Use in 2024," highlights apps that can enhance your productivity in the modern workspace.

Plain Text Planner

• I thrive with my custom templates in Obsidian, accessible on my Mac and iOS devices.
• Local Storage: I control my data without proprietary systems locking me in. Even if Obsidian vanished, I could access my files.
• Self-Reliance: I’ve committed to keeping plain text at the center of my digital life.
• Organization: My daily note serves as the foundation of my system, allowing for seamless organization.
• Hyperlinks: They significantly enhance my organizational capabilities.
• Efficiency: As a fast typist, I use Obsidian to quickly capture large volumes of text.
• Empowerment: Planning in plain text gives me a sense of control over what matters most to me.

In Summary

I easily become distracted, having previously been an app enthusiast. By adhering to my three primary productivity tools—a paper notebook, an interactive PDF planner, and a plain text planner—I can focus on my tasks instead of the tools themselves.

Even when I occasionally veer off course while creating new templates or discovering ways to enhance my productivity in Obsidian, I find comfort in knowing my exploration is manageable. I no longer feel the urge to chase the latest productivity apps or notebooks.

I am content with my trio of tools, as they elevate my spirits and make my journey toward achieving my goals enjoyable.