Building Your Vision: An Introduction

An ambitious individual without a clear plan to construct their visions is like an architect dreaming of grand structures without blueprints. Without a solid foundation or a structured design, it’s easy to become an avid dreamer, chasing goals that seem perpetually out of reach. Living without a blueprint or structure is like taking steps toward a far-off destination while focusing solely on each step, losing sight of where you’re truly headed.

The Problem: Ambition Without Structure

I consider myself a rather ambitious person. I tend to dream big. Yet, during a moment of self-reflection, I came to realize that while I have within me a desire for greatness, I had no blueprint to turn these desires into reality. The things I wanted to do and the goals I wanted to achieve were all just daydreams with no means of being realized.

Being a structured individual both in terms of thinking and living, I sought to devise a plan with which I would no longer simply be ambitious but rather take steps to achieve these ambitions. This post will cover the solution, its various components, and the methodology.

The Solution: The Structured Ambition Framework

Frameworks in programming bring structure and clarity to a program, turning complex ideas into actionable steps. They guide the process. Similarly, this framework aims to provide a set of steps and tools to aid the user in achieving their goals and ambitions by creating a blueprint with which the user can guide their year.

The framework’s main mechanism can be distilled to the simple idea of a yearly vision trickling down through a series of processes into weekly actionable tasks. This framework, the details of which are discussed below, is nothing but a tool to help you bring structure and order to your ambitions, hence the name: “Structured Ambition Framework.”

The Importance of a Solid Framework

While it is entirely possible to plan your year and create goals for yourself without this framework, it is widely known how most New Year goals and resolutions tend to turn out. People set out to reach a destination and fall off course within a couple of weeks or months.

The reason for individuals’ inability to achieve these goals is not perhaps a lack of drive and ambition, but rather a lack of a clear roadmap, a blueprint, and most importantly, a tool to achieve them with. This framework is exactly that and nothing else. A tool with which those driven by their ambition can overcome:

• Lack of direction
• Lack of proper planning
• Lack of consistency and awareness
• Lack of clarity and knowledge

This framework, just like in programming, helps the user build their goals through a process, one step at a time.

Foundation: Essential Framework Components

The components mentioned below are the tools and materials with which the user builds the foundation of their year.

The actual tool being used by this framework is Obsidian, a note-taking app that supports markdown formatting and is highly customizable, making it suitable for this purpose. The other parts mainly consist of concepts which will be implemented in Obsidian, such as project management and journaling.

Component 1: Journaling

Regardless of your usage of this framework, writing journals is something I would recommend starting today. Journaling can be thought of as a method to reflect on your thoughts, actions, and decisions without the biases of your present self. This makes journaling an effective practice that everyone should utilize in their life; it is a valuable tool that can be used by any introspective individual.

Reflection

In the context of this framework, journaling is used like noting daily construction processes. You record reflections, planning, and thoughts regarding the execution of your plans. This tool brings a sense of self-awareness to its users and aids in making readjustments when necessary. It also helps in identifying various roadblocks and figuring out the steps needed to overcome them.

Planning

Another important capability that journaling provides is helping you brainstorm new ideas, think of steps that need to be taken, and methods of executing them.

Component 2: Project Management

While project management methodology was not the initial inspiration for this framework, the concepts used in project management are the same as what is being proposed here.

In project management, a yearly deliverable can often be a complex task that is not simple to execute. To make the completion of the tasks possible, they are broken down into smaller quarterly, monthly, and weekly milestones.

Similarly, this framework helps the user break down the major vision they have set out to achieve into smaller and more manageable chunks, which are much simpler to execute.

Component 3: Obsidian

In the context of this framework, Obsidian can be thought of as a toolbox containing the various tools that make it up. In this section, we will go over the various tools in this toolbox and how they are used by the user.

The Basics

Obsidian allows users to take notes in markdown format. The files are local on your computer, and Obsidian acts as a markdown editor for those files.

The most important feature that Obsidian offers, which makes the creation and usage of this framework much easier, is the ability to create periodic notes using a predefined template.

You can learn more about Obsidian here.

Periodic Notes

Periodic notes are regular notes created for specific time frames. In this framework, all the various possibilities of periodic notes are used to provide more granular planning capability.

Yearly

Yearly notes are used to create a yearly vision for your life, a high-level blueprint that defines a destination you wish to reach in various areas of your life. While this framework does offer a predefined set of areas to create visions for, this does not mean these areas are set in stone and should be catered to the needs of its users.

Quarterly

In quarterly notes, the vision starts to take shape and translates into goals you set for that quarter. The high-level blueprint, which is just a desire for your life, turns into a list of tasks to be completed.

Monthly

A quarterly goal is still a very grand task that needs to be completed, and without breaking this plan down further into smaller pieces, you risk not achieving the goals. In the monthly note, they turn into yet smaller goals to be completed.

Weekly

A monthly goal is still gathering the materials needed to build the final structure in one place. Here, you start the building process by defining tasks to complete during the week.

Daily

Daily notes are used to keep track of the daily tasks you need to complete. It is also where the journal entries are made. Here, you start building, brick by brick.

Plugins in Use

Plugins in Obsidian are used to add extra functionalities to the core application. In this framework, three plugins are used: Templater, Tasks, and Daily Notes.

Templater

Templater is a more advanced version of the templates plugin that is packaged with the core application. This complexity gives this framework more power to achieve its purpose.

Tasks

The Tasks plugin in Obsidian enhances task management by enabling the creation, tracking, and querying of tasks across your entire vault. This framework uses this to schedule tasks and keep track of tasks that are due today.

Daily Note Plugin

Daily Notes is a plugin that creates a new note for every day. In this context, it can be thought of as the command center for the user and where all the various dots are connected together.

How It Works: Framework Workflow

Having built the foundation and the Components of this framework, we now focus on the actual building process and the method with which we operate in it.

Step 1: Crafting Your Yearly Vision

As briefly mentioned previously, the Yearly note is where a yearly vision is created. This is where you envision a life you desire, a space where you can be ambitious, create a blueprint for your year, and lay out the various steps needed to achieve them.

It is important to keep in mind that while it feels wonderful to have a grand vision and to hope to achieve greatness, you must consider the circumstances in which these visions are created and be aware of your own limitations. You must be realistic about what you hope to achieve in this year.

Step 2: Defining Your Areas of Focus

Now that we have established how this master plan is to look, you need to identify the various pillars of the building you are constructing. Which areas do you wish to create a vision for? Perhaps Career, Health, Relationships? Or it could be more aligned with your desire for personal growth.

Step 3: Translating Vision into Periodic Tasks

The visions you just created are then translated into daily tasks through a series of processes. You break down a monolith into smaller and more tangible pieces.

Having laid out an estimated plan in the yearly notes, in each quarter a set of goals is defined for each area. These quarterly goals give more structure to the estimated plan. They are milestones you take towards the destination. The goals are then turned into monthly goals, and monthly goals into weekly tasks.

In this way, the grand vision for the year trickles down into tasks you perform daily.

Example

Allow me to provide an example for you to better grasp this concept:

1. Yearly Vision: Run a marathon in a year.
2. Q1 Goals: Establish a consistent running routine; build up to running 5 km (3 miles) comfortably.
3. Month 1 Goals: Run 3 times per week; each session lasting 20-30 minutes; incorporate strength training.
4. Week 1 Tasks: Alternate running and walking intervals; aim for 20-minute sessions, 3 times this week.
5. Daily Task: Warm up, run/walk for 20 minutes, and cool down with light stretching.

As you can see, a set of tangible tasks is defined from a yearly vision you wish to achieve.

Step 4: Reflecting and Adjusting

In an ideal world, you can define tasks for yourself and achieve them without any issues. Unfortunately, ideals are not attainable by nature. To accommodate this, the framework defines a process to first reflect on the past iteration of the periodic note before any plans are created. This gives the user a sense of realism before any work can start.

In this section, you analyze, think, and reflect on when you were not able to meet your targets. By doing this, you slowly begin to see yourself with a sense of realism and self-awareness, which gives you the ability to plan and set goals from a more realistic perspective.

This enables you to readjust the methods being utilized and make any necessary changes to achieve the yearly vision.

Example

An example of points to reflect on are the following:

• What went well?
• What didn’t?
• What to improve or change?
• Why was I not able to meet my goals the previous month?
• How can I adjust the upcoming month’s goals to stay on track with the quarterly goals?

Approach: Compassionate Self-Reflection

Reflection often brings us face to face with our own shortcomings, and this might arise a sense of anger or frustration within you. I want to take a moment to remind you to fight your personal battles with compassion and not swords. In these battles, you are your own opponent, and showing yourself compassion and kindness at these times is crucial for personal growth.

I want to emphasize the importance of being realistic. Compassion and kindness do not mean lacking drive or ambition, nor do they imply carelessness or inaction. Instead, be compassionate with yourself when you cannot meet your goals and continue to work diligently with all your abilities, even if those goals remain unachieved.

Guidelines: Foundations for Longevity

Just like any project, various challenges can arise when you work on it. This section provides a set of guidelines to deal with those challenges.

Handling Setbacks: Contingency Plans

You are not a machine or a robot, and you need to keep that in mind during this process. You may face delays, roadblocks, and feel fatigued after continuously and tirelessly working towards your goals.

At times like this, it is beneficial to take a step back, perhaps give yourself a reset week to recharge, and begin the week after with a revitalized spirit.

Life is not ideal; it’s important to keep that in mind at all times.

Celebrating Success: Reward Systems

Celebrating your personal wins is important for your mental well-being. If you have met a quarterly goal or achieved a yearly vision, celebrate this win, no matter how small or big it may have been.

Tools in Detail: Deep Dive into Framework Components

Now that we’ve covered the what and how, let’s delve deeper into the tools that make up this framework. Think of these tools as the essential components in your construction kit, each serving a unique purpose to help you build your masterpiece.

We’ll discuss each note in detail, highlighting only the differences specific to each note type compared to previous one.

Yearly Note

You can find a link to the Yearly Note template here

Personal Reflection

Every periodic note begins with a “Personal Reflection” section. This is where you lay the foundation by summarizing the past year, reviewing your actions, and noting significant events. By evaluating whether you stayed aligned with your blueprint, you gain valuable insights and refine your plan for the upcoming year.

Vision

After reflecting on the past, you craft a vision for the year ahead. This vision acts as the architectural plan for your life, outlining the areas you wish to develop. While the framework provides predefined areas, feel free to customize them to suit your unique aspirations.

Quarterly Notes

You can find the link to the Quarterly Note template here

Yearly Vision

To keep your plan on course, the Quarterly Note starts by displaying your yearly vision. This constant reminder ensures that your quarterly goals remain aligned with your long-term objectives.

Tracker

In the Tracker section, you monitor your progress toward the yearly blueprint each quarter. This allows you to see what has been accomplished and what still needs attention, ensuring that your project remains on track.

Goals

Here, your yearly vision is broken down into specific quarterly goals. These goals are the milestones that guide you toward your ultimate destination, providing clear targets to achieve each quarter.

Monthly Notes

You can find the link to the Monthly Note template here

Tracker

The Tracker in the Monthly Note serves as your progress log. Write down exciting events, upcoming plans, and track the advancement of your quarterly goals. This ensures you stay aligned and make necessary adjustments to stay on course.

Planning

Planning is where you outline your monthly objectives and the habits you want to cultivate. This section is your blueprint for the month, detailing actionable tasks that pave the way toward your monthly and quarterly goals.

Weekly Notes

You can find the link to the Weekly Note template here

Personal Notes

Weekly Notes include personal elements like a Gratitude Journal or routine tasks. These notes help you stay grounded and organized, providing a steady rhythm to your weekly progress.

Daily Notes

You can find the link to the Daily Note template here

The Daily Note acts as the command center of this framework, enabling you to create and access all other notes effortlessly. Every day, it ensures that you lay another brick in the construction of your yearly vision, progressively shaping your long-term aspirations.

Quick Capture

Quick Capture allows you to swiftly jot down any thoughts or ideas that arise during the day. This ensures that nothing slips through the cracks.

Overview

In the Overview section, plan your day by identifying your main focuses, tasks, and places to be. This provides clarity and organization, setting the stage for a productive day.

Today’s Tasks

Combine your scheduled tasks with any new ones that emerge. This comprehensive list gives you a complete picture of what needs to be done, keeping your daily workflow seamless.

Daily Tracking

Document and reflect on your daily activities. This practice helps you see how each day contributes to your overarching goals, reinforcing your progress.

Periodic Notes

This overview indicates which periodic note (Yearly, Quarterly, Monthly, or Weekly) is currently active and how your daily tasks align with these larger objectives. It ensures that your daily actions are always in sync with your broader plans.

Tasks

Here, you can view all your responsibilities, including overdue items. This section helps you maintain productivity by keeping track of everything that needs your attention.

Tracker

The Tracker automatically records the tasks you complete each day, providing a clear overview of your daily progress.

Journal Entry

You can find the link to the Journal Note template here

Daily Tracking

Log daily events and highlights of your day. This helps you reflect on what’s most meaningful and memorable, adding depth to your daily progress.

Stream of Consciousness

Write down your thoughts as they occur. Treating this section as a literal stream of consciousness allows you to review your writings at the end of the week with a fresh perspective, enhancing your self-awareness.

Completion: Turning Your Blueprint into Reality

As shown, this framework helps you create a blueprint and supports you on your journey toward building the masterpiece that is your life. It has created a set of tools with which you can plan and construct the life you desire.

However, it’s important to recognize that this framework does not provide is a tool for personal commitment, without which no tool can help you achieve your ambitions. The steps needed to go toward your destination can be taken by no one but you.

Final Thoughts: A Short Review

What I hope this framework provides its users with is the ability to turn intangible ideas into tangible, actionable tasks. The Structured Ambition Framework offers a clear structure where those with ambition and drive can effectively operate, transforming their yearly visions into a reality.

A key aspect to remember is the importance of balancing ambition with realism. The visions you create for your year need to be realistic and attainable. This framework fosters a sense of realism and self-awareness through consistent self-reflection, ensuring that your aspirations remain grounded and within reach. By embracing the Structured Ambition Framework, you can steadily build the future you envision, one step at a time.

Resources & Appendix

Downloadable Files and Setup Instructions

You can find a link to the GitHub repo containing the necessary files for this framework as well as instructions on setting it up here