Mastering the Fundamentals: Doing More of What Already Works

Mastering the Fundamentals: Doing More of What Already Works

In our constant pursuit of progress and improvement, we often find ourselves seeking new strategies and information. We believe that if we just acquire more knowledge or discover a better approach, we will achieve the results we desire. However, sometimes the answer lies not in seeking something new, but in embracing what we already know and consistently applying it.

The concept of "doing more of what already works" may seem obvious, but it is often overlooked. We might think, "Everybody already knows that," but the truth is, not everyone is actually implementing what they know. Just because a solution or strategy is known doesn't mean it is utilized to its full potential. We might implement it occasionally, but not consistently. The key to progress lies in mastering the fundamentals and practicing them consistently.

No matter what task or endeavor we are focusing on, there is a simple checklist of steps that we can follow right now. These basic fundamentals have been known to us for years, and yet, we often neglect them in favor of seeking something new and exciting. However, progress often hides behind these seemingly boring solutions and underused insights.

We don't need more information or a better strategy. We just need to do more of what already works. By consistently applying the fundamentals we already know, we can immediately start seeing results. It may not be the most glamorous or exciting approach, but it is effective.

Now, let's explore the power of note-making with the co-founder of Obsidian, a platform that allows users to customize and extend their notes. The inspiration for Obsidian came from the extensibility of code editors. Just like one can customize almost every aspect of a code editor, why can't we do the same with our notes? This idea led to the development of Obsidian, where most native features exist as plugins that can be turned on or off based on individual preferences.

During the early stages of development, the Obsidian team decided to conduct a private beta through Discord. This allowed them to distribute alpha versions of the software and gather direct feedback from users. As the Discord community grew, they recruited helpful community members as moderators. However, they soon realized that Discord was not suitable for effectively organizing discussions and keeping track of topics. This led them to incorporate a forum, which proved to be a better platform for in-depth discussions and maintaining a record of conversations.

Obsidian is designed to be the IDE (Integrated Development Environment) for thought. It provides users with a functional and extensible front-end for their notes, giving them total control over their note-taking experience. By allowing users to build their own private digital garden of thoughts and ideas, Obsidian empowers individuals to organize and explore their knowledge in a personalized and meaningful way.

Incorporating the concept of "doing more of what already works" into note-making can be highly beneficial. Instead of constantly searching for new note-taking methods or tools, we can focus on mastering the fundamentals of effective note-making. By consistently applying these principles, we can enhance our productivity and gain a deeper understanding of the information we capture.

Now, let's consider three actionable pieces of advice to implement this concept into our note-making workflow:

• 1. Embrace simplicity: Instead of getting caught up in the latest note-taking trends or complex systems, prioritize simplicity. Stick to the fundamental principles of effective note-making, such as capturing key ideas, organizing information, and making connections. Avoid overcomplicating the process and focus on what already works for you.

• 2. Consistency is key: Establish a regular note-making routine and stick to it. Set aside dedicated time each day or week to review and update your notes. By consistently engaging with your notes, you reinforce your understanding of the material and make it easier to recall information when needed.

• 3. Customize and personalize: Just like Obsidian allows users to customize their note-taking experience, find ways to personalize your own note-making process. Experiment with different formats, styles, and tools to suit your preferences and workflow. Tailor your note-making system to align with your unique needs and make it a reflection of your thought process.

In conclusion, the concept of "doing more of what already works" applies to various aspects of our lives, including note-making. We often overlook the fundamentals and seek new strategies or information instead. However, by mastering the basics and consistently applying them, we can achieve significant progress. Obsidian's approach to note-making exemplifies this concept by providing a customizable and extensible platform for individuals to explore and organize their thoughts. By embracing simplicity, prioritizing consistency, and personalizing our note-making process, we can enhance our productivity and gain a deeper understanding of the information we capture. So, let's focus on what already works and start making the most of our notes today.