Obsidian Template: Organise Your Life With a Simple Paperless Planner

The almost-automated productivity system that I use every day

Photo by Tabitha Mort at Pexels, cropped. Text overlay by Author. Click here to see how I made this image.

Planners, diaries, journals, notebooks, calendars — I’ve been drawn to them from the time I learned how to write.

It’s true, their pixellated counterparts can’t compete with the feel of the real thing, but that’s okay. For me they meld topics I’m intensely fascinated by: organisation, productivity, note making, and technology.

I’m currently exploring this digital landscape (plain text flavoured) with a sense of wonder, and the comfort and convenience of a paper notebook in my hand.

While this is an Obsidian-centric article and uses some features that may be unique to that app, you can apply the principles I’ll be showing you in any app that allows notes to be linked together. NotePlan, Roam, Logseq, Joplin, TiddlyWiki, Notejoy — take your pick!

The format I use helps me organise my life by making it easier to see what I need to focus on today.

In this article I’ll show you what a typical day in my planner might look like, and my template’s raw data. After explaining each section I’ll suggest frictionless ways Apple users can quickly get information into the daily note, even when Obsidian isn’t open.

New to Obsidian?

If you’re new to Obsidian, this tutorial might feel a tad overwhelming.

You may be tempted to curse my name for using the word “simple” in the headline and then proceeding to show you something that looks anything but.

If it seems formidable, take heart! My very average IQ and I have been where you are now. I recommend reading to the end before starting, to get the lay of the land.

As you read make a list of your sticking points, then look up what’s not explained here. Check the Obsidian Help Files baked into the app, or do a quick search online. There are many helpful videos on YouTube and posts on the official Obsidian forum and Reddit covering all aspects of using the app.

Once you know your way around, these instructions will show you how to set up a planner…