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How I Replaced Notion with Reminders, Numbers, and Notes
I was initially pretty captivated by Notion. Its flexible platform for note-taking, project management, and database creation seemed to offer everything I needed in one neat package.
But two issues started to nag at me:
- It was yet another monthly subscription to add to my growing list, and
- The last time I put all my data in one app, it was Evernote and I eventually got wildly fucking fucked over.
That’s when I had my lightbulb moment. I realized that my Apple device already came equipped with a powerful trio of apps that, when used together, could rival Notion’s functionality. Even better, they offered the seamless integration that only native apps can provide.
I’m talking about Reminders, Numbers, and Notes — Apple’s own productivity powerhouses. I’ll admit, I had overlooked these apps for years, always looking for flashier third-party alternatives. You know. Whatever had reached the top of ProductHunt or Hacker News. But as I began to explore their capabilities, I was genuinely surprised. These apps offer a depth of functionality that has transformed my productivity workflow.
I want to show you how I use these three apps to create a productivity system that’s both powerful and elegantly simple, allowing me to manage my life as a parent while building @Westenberg, The Index, Idle Ventures and this productivity/philosophy publication, The Realist.
First off — a caveat. My workflow is deeply rooted in the Apple ecosystem. My iPad Pro serves as my sole computer. For me, it’s a sleek, simple and powerful device that can handle all my needs, from writing and editing to managing my business operations.
My publications and my business communications use iCloud+ custom domain email addresses. It’s a setup that streamlines my workflow and provides a unified, professional front for my various projects. As for file storage, I’ve fully embraced iCloud. All my documents, from draft articles to financial spreadsheets, are in Apple’s cloud, accessible across all my devices.
