One of the most common questions I get is “how do I start building a zettelkasten if I don’t have any existing notes or creative outputs?”
The easy answer is to just start writing about what currently interests you. But if you have an ADHD brain like I do, you currently have 7 unrelated interests. Actually, make that 8 (a new interest just popped up since I started writing this!)
Usually when people say “how do I start”, what they really mean is they don’t have a specific goal in mind and want to make sure their initial notes are going to build a meaningful foundation.
Having an initial goal is not required to start building a zettelkasten, yet lacking one is why most people fail. The ADHD brain is interest based. If we aren’t rewarded by our efforts, we will quickly lose interest and move on to the next shiny new object along.
So instead of choosing one of your random current interests that may be gone by next week, I’ll show you how to start with purpose by focusing on meaningful solutions you’ve already written about.
The Power of Solution-First Note-Taking
What if you already have everything you need to start a valuable zettelkasten? Chances are, you’ve solved problems that others are still struggling with. This is your foundation for purposeful note-taking.
Think about a time you helped someone online with a specific challenge. That moment wasn’t random—you chose to help because you had valuable knowledge worth sharing. When people keep asking the same questions, it signals an opportunity to create lasting value through your notes.
Finding Your Solution Sweet Spot
Start by identifying:
- A problem you’ve personally solved
- Questions you naturally enjoy answering
- Challenges where your solution worked differently than common advice
This becomes your north star for building your zettelkasten. Instead of chasing fleeting interests, you’re building upon transformational value that can impact others.
Building a Value-Driven Zettelkasten
Connect your solution with meaningful experiences by documenting:
- The core problem and why it matters
- Your journey to finding the solution
- Key insights that made the difference
- Specific results and outcomes
- How others can apply your approach
Each note contributes to a larger purpose: creating transformational value for others while building your expertise.
Test and Refine Through Sharing
The relationships you create in your zettelkasten can compound in value through real-world testing. Share your insights where people are asking about your specific problem. Each response you write can produce new notes and connections, creating a cycle of improvement through feedback.
Remember, you don’t need to be an expert—you just need to be one step ahead of those you’re helping. The feedback you receive shapes your notes into more valuable solutions.
From Notes to Knowledge Products
When you build your zettelkasten around solutions, you’re investing in creating potential income generating knowledge products such as:
- Detailed guides
- Online courses
- Coaching programs
- Digital products
Each note you write with purpose can contribute to transforming your life and the lives of others while building a valuable knowledge base that can produce real monetary rewards.
Start Creating Value Today
Ready to start writing your way to creative freedom? Join the waitlist for Zettel Monetizer cohort 2, where I’ll teach you my complete system for turning your solutions into a profitable newsletter powered by your notes.
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Your future audience is waiting.