Getting Started with Notion: Creating Your Life OS

Introduction

• This lecture focuses on setting up a basic Notion system called "Life OS."
• Even beginners can create their own dashboard with two simple databases.
• The process is similar to the instructor's own setup.

Initial Setup

1. Naming and Icon Selection
   • Name the page "Life OS."
   • Choose an icon (suggestion: Yin Yang).
2. Styling
   • Use # for headings and / for color and background settings.
   • Add dividers for a clean look.

Importance of Databases

• Databases are essential for organizing Notion setups.
• Two main databases will be created: Tasks and Notes.

Creating the Task Database

1. Setup
   • Create a new table view database named "Task Database."
   • Change properties to include due dates and completion checkboxes.
2. Properties
   • Use date format as month/day/year, time format 24-hour.
   • Add a "Done" checkbox.
3. Example Tasks
   • Watch product reviews, sell items, and book flights.
   • Sort tasks by due date ascending.

Creating the Notes Database

1. Setup
   • New database named "Notes Database."
   • Properties include note type, created time, and last updated time.
2. Types of Notes
   • Meeting/Presentation, Thoughts, and Research.
   • Use different colors for note types.
3. Example Entries
   • Categorize notes based on their purpose.

Building the Command Center (Dashboard)

1. Setup
   • Create a new page named "Command Center."
   • Add location and divider lines.
2. Weekly Task View
   • Create a view for upcoming tasks using filters for due date.
3. Notes View
   • Duplicate and adjust views for recent notes, sort by last updated time.

Creating Database Views

1. Task Views
   • Upcoming, Inbox, and All Tasks views.
   • Use filters to show tasks based on completion and due dates.
2. Notes Views
   • Recent notes view sorted by last updated.
   • Hide unnecessary properties for cleaner view.

Using Templates

• Create templates for repetitive tasks, such as meeting notes.
• Use templates to save time and maintain consistency.

Additional Features

1. Task Calendar View
   • Create a calendar view from the task database for visual representation.
   • Show completed tasks in the calendar.
2. Quick Links Section
   • Add links to essential views or pages in the dashboard for easy access.

Conclusion

• The setup is powered by databases and tailored to individual needs.
• Encourages exploration of Notion's endless possibilities.
• Follow-up on questions and stay tuned for more tutorials.