When I first started using Notion, I did everything wrong.
- Too many dashboards.
- Too many databases.
- Way too much “aesthetic” tweaking.

If I had to start over today, I’d do it differently. Here’s exactly how:

1. Start simple.​
One dashboard, not five. A central page with links to everything.

2. Build for function, not looks.​
A clean system > a pretty system. You can always add aesthetics later.

3. Focus on 3 pillars.

• A task manager → keep projects and to-dos in one place.
• A knowledge hub → capture notes, ideas, and resources.
• A life dashboard → calendar, habits, routines.

That’s it.
If you nail those three, everything else is optional.

👉 To save you the trial-and-error, I turned this framework into ready-to-use templates you can plug in today.

Here are my Popular drops:

🟡 Startup OS​

🟢 Human Resources Hub​

🔵 Podcast OS​

🔴 Second Brain OS​

🟠 Reading OS​

🟣 Consulting OS​

🟢 Airbnb OS​

🟡 Real Estate Agency​

🔵 Real estate Investor OS​

🟠 Property Management OS​

And if you’d rather have me tailor Notion exactly to your workflow, I also offer 1:1 Notion consulting.

Because starting from scratch doesn’t have to mean starting alone. 🚀
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As always, feel free to hit reply if you have any questions.
Can’t wait to see how you use Notion!

– Abdo