Chapter 1: Introduction to My Productivity Framework

Lately, I've shared a lot about the applications I utilize on my Mac, iPad, and iPhone. Today, I’m excited to delve into the three primary apps that form the bedrock of my productivity framework. These applications are Todoist, Apple Notes, and Fantastical.

Section 1.1: Todoist — The Core of My Task Management

Todoist stands out as the most frequently used app within my productivity framework. It serves as a comprehensive list of everything I aim to achieve daily. This encompasses routine tasks such as taking my allergy medication, completing laundry, and setting aside time for meditation, alongside project-related activities.

Unlike many people who organize their task lists by project, I adopt the Time Sector System developed by Carl Pullein. This approach doesn’t categorize tasks by individual projects but instead organizes them based on when I can realistically complete them.

I may have several tasks associated with one project, but I schedule them according to my anticipated completion timeline. Tasks due within the next week are placed in my "This Week" project, while those that don’t need immediate attention are assigned to "This Month." Recurring tasks—those I need to address daily, weekly, or monthly—are cataloged in my routine project. This method of scheduling alleviates feelings of overwhelm and enhances my organizational skills.

Section 1.2: Apple Notes — A Hidden Gem

Apple Notes is often undervalued and overlooked in the app landscape. Initially, it struggled with a less appealing design and a paper-like aesthetic. However, it has evolved significantly, now offering features like tagging, quick notes, and the ability to lock notes with a password or Face ID.

One feature I discovered by chance is the ability to add images directly within notes. Previously, I would take a picture and then open Apple Notes to attach it, cluttering my photo library. Now, I can add images directly to notes, keeping my photo app organized.

Apple Notes allows me to securely store all essential information and syncs seamlessly across devices. I keep all my project notes here, ensuring that my task manager, Todoist, remains solely for tasks that need completion. For any project-related reference, I simply create a link to the note and include it in the task's notes field. If you’ve previously used Evernote, Bear, or OneNote without giving Apple Notes a chance lately, I highly recommend trying it out. It’s powerful and free with any Apple device.

Chapter 2: Fantastical — The Ultimate Calendar Solution

I utilize my calendar exclusively for appointments, not for task scheduling. If there’s a meeting or event, it goes on my calendar. For instance, if I have a task to write for my blog, I treat it as a significant endeavor and schedule it appropriately.

Fantastical is the calendar app I believe Apple should have developed. It simplifies the process of adding events through its natural language recognition feature. For example, to schedule a lunch with a friend, I simply type, “Lunch with Sam Friday 12:30pm at Longhorn,” and Fantastical automatically fills in all relevant details. In contrast, when I use the built-in calendar on Apple devices, I have to manually input every detail.

While Siri can assist with calendar entries, I find it less effective in a noisy office environment. Fantastical streamlines the process and saves me a considerable amount of time.

The first video titled "The 3 Basics Of All Great Productivity Systems" offers insights into foundational elements that enhance productivity.

The second video, "How to Build Your Ultimate Productivity System," discusses strategies for creating an effective productivity framework.

Conclusion

These three applications are integral to my productivity system, each playing a vital role in how I plan and achieve my daily goals. If you have any inquiries about them, feel free to leave a comment.

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