Creating an ADHD Life Management System in n8n

EDUCATIONAL COURSE: n8n for ADHD Life Management – A Self-Directed Learning Program

Course Goal: To develop the technical skills in n8n necessary to build a personalized, automated life management system that addresses core ADHD-related executive function challenges, leading to improved task completion, time management, prioritization, and overall well-being.

Prerequisites:

• Basic computer literacy (using a text editor, navigating file systems)
• Familiarity with the core concepts of your ADHD management system (you’ve already done this!)

Remedial Resources:

• For command-line basics: The Command Line Crash Course.
• For Docker basics: Docker’s official “Get Started” guide.

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1. STRUCTURAL DESIGN

Module	Theme	Estimated Time
1. Programming and JavaScript Fundamentals	Foundational coding skills	10-15 hours
2. n8n Fundamentals & Your First Workflow	Getting Started & Basic Automation	8-12 hours
3. API Integration: Connecting Your World	Connecting to External Services	12-16 hours
4. JavaScript Power-Ups for n8n	Custom Logic and Data Transformation	15-20 hours
5. Data, State, and Persistence	Managing Information Across Workflow Runs	10-14 hours
6. AI-Powered Automation with Ollama	Integrating Local AI for Smart Assistance	12-16 hours
7. Advanced Integrations & Visualization	Expanding Functionality and Reporting	10-14 hours
8. ADHD-Specific Workflow Design Patterns	Implementing Executive Function Support	15-20 hours
9. Final Project: Your ADHD System	Building and Refining Your Complete System	20-30 hours

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2. MODULE DETAILS

Module 1: Programming and JavaScript Fundamentals

• Learning Objectives:
  • Understand basic programming concepts: variables, data types (strings, numbers, booleans), operators, conditional statements (if/else), loops (for, while).
  • Write basic JavaScript code using variables, functions, arrays, and objects.
  • Understand how to use the browser’s developer console for debugging JavaScript.
  • Work with JavaScript data structures (arrays and objects) and manipulate them.
• Core Topics:
  • Introduction to programming logic
  • JavaScript syntax and data types
  • Control flow: conditional statements and loops
  • Functions: defining and calling functions
  • Working with arrays and objects
  • Basic debugging techniques
  • Introduction to the DOM (Document Object Model) – very basic, just enough to understand how JavaScript interacts with web pages (relevant for n8n’s Function nodes).
• Estimated Completion Time: 10-15 hours
• Rationale: This module ensures you have the necessary foundation to handle the JavaScript coding required in later n8n workflows. It’s designed to be a quick refresher, not a comprehensive JavaScript course.
• Resources:
  • Primary:
    • freeCodeCamp’s “JavaScript Algorithms and Data Structures” certification (first sections: Basic JavaScript, ES6): https://www.freecodecamp.org/learn/javascript-algorithms-and-data-structures/
    • “JavaScript for impatient programmers” by Dr. Axel Rauschmayer: https://exploringjs.com/impatient-js/toc.html
    • MDN Web Docs JavaScript Guide: https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Web/JavaScript/Guide
  • Supplementary:
    • YouTube: Search for “JavaScript basics tutorial” and choose a beginner-friendly series. (e.g., Traversy Media, The Net Ninja).
    • Codecademy’s “Learn JavaScript” course (free introductory sections): https://www.codecademy.com/learn/introduction-to-javascript
• Exercises:
  • Create simple JavaScript functions to perform calculations (e.g., calculate the area of a rectangle).
  • Write code to manipulate strings (e.g., reverse a string, find a substring).
  • Work with arrays: add, remove, and modify elements.
  • Create objects to represent real-world entities (e.g., a task, a person).
  • Use conditional statements and loops to control program flow.
• Project: Create a simple JavaScript program that takes user input (using prompt() in the browser console) and performs a basic calculation or data manipulation.
• Assessment: Completion of the freeCodeCamp exercises and the mini-project. Focus on understanding the concepts, not memorizing syntax.

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Module 2: n8n Fundamentals & Your First Workflow

• Learning Objectives:
  • Install and run n8n using Docker on your M1 Mac.
  • Navigate the n8n workflow editor and understand its key components.
  • Create and execute a simple workflow using trigger and action nodes.
  • Understand the execution flow of an n8n workflow.
  • Use the Set node to create and manipulate variables.
  • Implement basic conditional logic with the If node.
  • Set up environment variables for sensitive data.
  • Create a basic time-blocking workflow that sends scheduled reminders.
  • Build a simple “procrastination-buster” workflow that sends a motivating message at a specific time.
• Core Topics:
  • Introduction to n8n and its capabilities
  • Docker installation and setup for n8n (review, since you’re familiar)
  • The n8n interface: workflow editor, nodes, connections
  • Trigger nodes: Schedule, Webhook, Manual, Telegram
  • Action nodes: Set, Function, If, Telegram
  • Workflow execution flow: triggers, actions, data passing
  • Basic data types in n8n (strings, numbers, booleans)
  • Environment variables and their use
  • Error handling basics: identifying and resolving common issues
  • Debugging workflows: execution history, error logs
• Estimated Completion Time: 8-12 hours
• Rationale: This module lays the groundwork for all subsequent modules. It gets n8n running, introduces core concepts, and builds the first practical workflows for immediate benefit.
• Resources:
  • Primary:
    • n8n Official Documentation: https://docs.n8n.io/ (Focus on the “Getting Started” and “Nodes” sections)
    • “Getting Started with n8n” (YouTube Playlist – Official n8n Channel): Search for “n8n getting started playlist” on YouTube.
  • Supplementary:
    • n8n Community Forum: https://community.n8n.io/
• Required Tools:
  • M1 Mac
  • Docker Desktop
  • Text editor (VS Code, Sublime Text, etc.)
  • Telegram account
• Exercises:
  1. Simple Reminder: Create a workflow that sends a Telegram message at a specific time of day.
  2. Conditional Reminder: Modify the reminder to only send if a specific condition is met (e.g., it’s a weekday).
  3. Variable-Based Reminder: Use a Set node to store the reminder message and time in variables, then use those variables in the Telegram node.
  4. Webhook Triggered Message: Create a workflow that sends a Telegram message when triggered by a webhook (test with Postman or curl).
  5. Time-Blocking Simulation: Use a Schedule Trigger to send messages representing different blocks of your day (e.g., “Work,” “Break,” “Lunch”).
  6. Procrastination-Buster: Create a workflow that sends a motivating message at a time you typically procrastinate.
• Project: Create a simple time-blocking system that sends you scheduled reminder messages to Telegram during scheduled times of the day.
• Assessment: Successful completion of the exercises and the module project.

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Module 3: API Integration: Connecting Your World

• Learning Objectives:
  • Understand the fundamental principles of REST APIs: resources, HTTP methods (GET, POST, PUT, DELETE), status codes (200, 400, 500), headers, request/response bodies.
  • Use an API testing tool (like Postman or Insomnia) to make API requests.
  • Understand different API authentication methods (API keys, OAuth 2.0, Basic Auth).
  • Set up the Local REST API plugin and Post Webhook Plugin in Obsidian.
  • Read data from your Obsidian vault using n8n.
  • Create and update notes in Obsidian programmatically.
  • Set up OAuth authentication for Google Calendar.
  • Read and create calendar events using n8n.
  • Create a Telegram bot with BotFather.
  • Set up the Telegram trigger node in n8n.
  • Process user commands and send formatted messages via Telegram.
• Core Topics:
  • What is an API? Why are they important?
  • REST API architecture and principles
  • HTTP methods in detail
  • Understanding API documentation
  • Using Postman/Insomnia for API exploration and testing
  • Authentication and authorization
  • Working with JSON data
  • Obsidian Integration:
    • Local REST API plugin setup
    • Post Webhook Plugin setup
    • Reading notes and frontmatter
    • Creating and updating notes
  • Google Calendar Integration:
    • OAuth 2.0 setup
    • Reading and creating events
    • Managing recurring events
  • Telegram Bot Development:
    • BotFather setup
    • Telegram trigger node
    • Sending and receiving messages
    • Basic command handling
• Estimated Completion Time: 12-16 hours
• Rationale: This module expands your n8n capabilities by connecting it to the external services that are crucial for your life management system.
• Resources:
  • Primary:
    • “REST API Tutorial” (YouTube): Search for “REST API tutorial for beginners” (e.g., videos by freeCodeCamp, Traversy Media).
    • Postman’s Learning Center: https://learning.postman.com/ (Focus on “Intro to APIs” and “Sending Requests”).
    • Obsidian Local REST API Plugin Documentation: Search GitHub for “obsidian local rest api”
    • Obsidian Post Webhook Plugin Documentation: Search GitHub for “obsidian post webhook”
    • Google Calendar API Documentation: https://developers.google.com/calendar/api/guides
    • Telegram Bot API Documentation: https://core.telegram.org/bots/api
    • n8n Documentation for HTTP Request, Obsidian, Google Calendar, and Telegram nodes.
  • Supplementary:
    • MDN Web Docs: HTTP: https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Web/HTTP
• Exercises:
  • Use Postman/Insomnia to make GET requests to a public API (e.g., a weather API).
  • Practice different authentication methods with various APIs.
  • Create a workflow to read the content of a specific note in Obsidian.
  • Create a workflow to add a new note to Obsidian with specific frontmatter.
  • Create a workflow to retrieve your Google Calendar events for the current day.
  • Create a workflow to add a new event to your Google Calendar.
  • Create a Telegram bot and send a simple message from n8n.
  • Create a workflow that responds to a specific command sent via Telegram.
• Project: Build a task capture system that accepts input via Telegram and stores tasks in Obsidian with metadata (e.g., deadline, priority).
• Assessment: Successful completion of the exercises and the project.

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Module 4: JavaScript Power-Ups for n8n

• Learning Objectives:
  • Use JavaScript code within n8n’s Function nodes effectively.
  • Transform data using JavaScript: string manipulation, date formatting, array methods (map, filter, reduce), object manipulation.
  • Handle item lists and batching in Function nodes.
  • Write reusable code with helper functions within n8n.
  • Understand asynchronous operations in JavaScript (promises, async/await).
  • Make API calls from within Function nodes.
• Core Topics:
  • Review of JavaScript fundamentals (relevant to n8n)
  • Working with the n8n Function node: inputs, outputs, item lists
  • Data transformation techniques:
    • String manipulation
    • Date and time formatting
    • Array methods (map, filter, reduce)
    • Object manipulation (lodash library)
  • Advanced Function node techniques:
    • Batching and item lists
    • State management between runs
    • Error handling (try/catch)
  • Asynchronous JavaScript:
    • Promises and async/await
    • Making API calls within Function nodes
    • Handling timeouts and retries
• Estimated Completion Time: 15-20 hours
• Rationale: This module unlocks the full power of n8n by allowing you to write custom code to handle complex data transformations and logic.
• Resources:
  • Primary:
    • n8n Documentation: Function Node: https://docs.n8n.io/nodes/n8n-nodes-base.function/
    • MDN Web Docs: JavaScript (focus on array methods, object manipulation, async/await): https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Web/JavaScript
    • Lodash Documentation: https://lodash.com/docs/
  • Supplementary:
    • YouTube: Search for “JavaScript array methods,” “JavaScript async await,” “JavaScript object manipulation.”
• Exercises:
  • Write Function nodes to:
    • Format dates from one format to another.
    • Extract specific information from a string.
    • Filter an array of tasks based on criteria.
    • Transform an array of objects into a different structure.
    • Make an API call and process the response.
• Project: Create a task prioritization algorithm in JavaScript (within an n8n Function node) that sorts tasks based on deadline, importance, and estimated effort. This algorithm should be integrated into your task capture system.
• Assessment: Successful completion of the exercises and the project.

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Module 5: Data, State, and Persistence

• Learning Objectives:
  • Understand different methods for storing data in n8n workflows.
  • Use n8n’s built-in storage to manage variables and data between workflow executions.
  • Connect n8n to external databases (e.g., a simple SQLite database).
  • Read and write data to files on the filesystem.
  • Understand the importance of state management in long-running workflows.
  • Implement best practices for data backup and recovery.
• Core Topics:
  • n8n built-in storage:
    • Variables
    • Workflow data
    • Binary data
  • External storage options:
    • Databases (SQL – focus on SQLite for simplicity)
    • Filesystem (reading and writing files)
  • State management best practices:
    • Tracking task state changes
    • Persisting user preferences
    • Versioning data
  • Backup and recovery strategies
• Estimated Completion Time: 10-14 hours
• Rationale: This module ensures your workflows can handle data persistently and reliably, which is essential for a long-term life management system.
• Resources:
  • Primary:
    • n8n documentation for relevant nodes
    • SQLite Documentation: https://www.sqlite.org/docs.html
  • Supplementary:
    • YouTube: Search for “n8n database integration,” “SQLite tutorial.”
• Exercises:
  • Create a workflow to store and retrieve a value from n8n’s built-in storage.
  • Set up a simple SQLite database.
  • Create a workflow to insert data into the SQLite database.
  • Create a workflow to retrieve data from the SQLite database.
  • Create a workflow to write data to a text file.
  • Create a workflow to read data from a text file.
• Project: Build a workflow that tracks task completion history and stores analytics data (e.g., number of tasks completed per day, average completion time) in a SQLite database for later review.
• Assessment: Successful completion of the exercises and the project.

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Module 6: AI-Powered Automation with Ollama

• Learning Objectives:
  • Install and configure Ollama on your M1 Mac.
  • Understand the basics of prompt engineering.
  • Design effective prompts for different tasks (classification, summarization, question answering).
  • Build n8n workflows that integrate with the Ollama API.
  • Handle AI responses and process the outputs.
  • Implement error handling for AI interactions.
• Core Topics:
  • Setting up Ollama:
    • Installation and configuration
    • Managing models
    • Resource management
  • Prompt engineering basics:
    • System prompts
    • Input structuring
    • Instruction formats
  • AI integration in n8n:
    • HTTP Request node for Ollama API
    • Handling responses in Function nodes
    • Processing and formatting outputs
    • Error handling
  • Advanced AI applications:
    • Task classification and prioritization
    • Adaptive reminder content
    • Pattern recognition in behavior data (using data from previous modules)
• Estimated Completion Time: 12-16 hours
• Rationale: This module leverages the power of local AI to add intelligent assistance to your life management system.
• Resources:
  • Primary:
    • Ollama Documentation: https://ollama.ai/
    • n8n HTTP Request Node Documentation
    • Prompt Engineering Resources: Search for “prompt engineering techniques” and “prompt engineering guide.”
  • Supplementary:
    • YouTube: Search for “Ollama tutorial,” “prompt engineering tutorial.”
• Exercises:
  • Experiment with different prompts using the Ollama command-line interface.
  • Create a workflow to send a simple prompt to Ollama and display the response.
  • Create a workflow to classify tasks based on their description using Ollama.
  • Create a workflow to generate a summary of a long text using Ollama.
• Project: Create an AI assistant (integrated into your n8n system) that helps break down complex projects into actionable steps and suggests optimal scheduling based on your existing calendar and task data.
• Assessment: Successful completion of the exercises and the project.

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Module 7: Advanced Integrations & Visualization

• Learning Objectives:
  • Integrate RescueTime with n8n to fetch activity data.
  • Analyze productivity patterns using RescueTime data.
  • Use Quickchart.io to generate visualizations of your data (task completion rates, progress reports).
  • Implement advanced Telegram features: custom keyboards, inline buttons, multi-step forms.
  • Set up Android notifications.
• Core Topics:
  • RescueTime Integration:
    • Setting up the RescueTime API
    • Fetching activity data
    • Analyzing productivity patterns
  • Data Visualization with Quickchart.io:
    • Creating charts and graphs
    • Generating reports
    • Embedding visualizations
  • Advanced Telegram Features:
    • Custom keyboards and inline buttons
    • Conversational workflows
    • Multi-step forms
    • Managing user sessions and context
  • Mobile Notifications (Android):
    • Setting up notifications
    • Actionable notifications
    • Timing and frequency
• Estimated Completion Time: 10-14 hours
• Rationale: This module expands the functionality of your system and adds reporting capabilities.
• Resources:
  • Primary:
    • RescueTime API Documentation: https://www.rescuetime.com/apidoc
    • Quickchart.io Documentation: https://quickchart.io/docs/
    • Telegram Bot API Documentation (for advanced features)
    • n8n documentation for the relevant nodes.
  • Supplementary:
    • YouTube: Search for “RescueTime API tutorial,” “Quickchart.io tutorial,” “Telegram bot advanced features.”
• Exercises:
  • Create a workflow to fetch your RescueTime data for the past week.
  • Create a workflow to generate a chart of your task completion rate using Quickchart.io.
  • Create a Telegram bot with custom keyboard options.
  • Create a Telegram bot that handles a multi-step form.
• Project: Build a weekly review workflow that analyzes RescueTime data, generates visual reports (using Quickchart.io), and suggests productivity improvements. The report should be sent via Telegram.
• Assessment: Successful completion of the exercises and the project.

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Module 8: ADHD-Specific Workflow Design Patterns

• Learning Objectives:
  • Design n8n workflows that specifically address executive function challenges:
    • Time management
    • Task breakdown
    • Decision-making
    • Working memory support
  • Implement workflows for emotional regulation:
    • Mood tracking
    • Positive reinforcement
    • Anti-procrastination techniques
    • Motivation enhancement
  • Design workflows for managing hyperfocus:
    • Transition assistance
    • Time awareness
    • Context switching
  • Create adaptive scheduling workflows that respond to changing energy levels and focus.
• Core Topics:
  • Implementing Executive Function Support:
    • Time management workflows
    • Task breakdown assistants
    • Decision-making helpers
    • Working memory supports
  • Emotional Regulation Systems:
    • Mood tracking workflows
    • Positive reinforcement systems
    • Anti-procrastination techniques
    • Motivation enhancers
  • Hyperfocus Management:
    • Detecting and working with hyperfocus
    • Transition assistance
    • Time awareness systems
    • Context switching supports
  • Adaptive Scheduling:
    • Dynamic time blocking
    • Flexible routines
    • Buffer time management
    • Recovery strategies
• Estimated Completion Time: 15-20 hours
• Rationale: This module brings together all the previous technical skills and applies them to the core challenges of ADHD, creating a truly personalized and supportive system.
• Resources:
  • Primary: This module relies heavily on your understanding of your own ADHD and the strategies that work best for you. Review your initial system description and any relevant ADHD resources.
  • Supplementary: Look for inspiration in online communities and forums for ADHD and productivity.
• Exercises:
  • Design a workflow to help you break down a large task into smaller, manageable steps.
  • Create a workflow to track your mood throughout the day.
  • Design a workflow to provide positive reinforcement for completing tasks.
  • Create a workflow to help you transition between tasks.
  • Design a workflow to dynamically adjust your schedule based on your energy levels (reported via Telegram).
• Project: Create an integrated “daily assistant” workflow that adapts to your energy levels, mood, and focus state while helping you maintain productivity. This workflow should incorporate elements from previous modules and address your specific needs.
• Assessment: Successful completion of the exercises and the project. The focus here is on effectiveness for your personal needs, not just technical correctness.

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Module 9: Final Project: Your ADHD System

• Learning Objectives:
  • Design and implement a complete, integrated ADHD life management system in n8n.
  • Test and refine your system to ensure it meets your specific needs.
  • Document your system for future reference and maintenance.
• Core Topics:
  • Phase 1: System Design and Planning
    • Defining requirements
    • Creating a workflow architecture diagram
    • Establishing data models and storage
    • Planning integrations
  • Phase 2: Core Components Implementation
    • Task capture and organization
    • Morning planning routine
    • Notification and reminder engine
    • Daily review and reflection system
  • Phase 3: Specialized Workflows
    • Invoice assistant
    • Project completer
    • Financial health monitor
    • Custom workflows
  • Phase 4: Testing and Refinement
    • Creating test scenarios
    • Implementing feedback mechanisms
    • Optimizing performance
    • Documenting the system
• Estimated Completion Time: 20-30 hours
• Rationale: This is the culmination of the entire course, where you build the complete system you envisioned.
• Resources: All previous resources, plus your own system design document.
• Assessment:
  • Functionality (70%): Does the system work as intended? Does it address your core needs?
  • Code Quality (10%): Are the workflows well-organized, efficient, and maintainable?
  • Documentation (10%): Is the system clearly documented?
  • Adaptability (10%): Can the system be easily modified and extended in the future?

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3. 30-DAY IMPLEMENTATION PLAN

A detailed 30-day plan will be provided separately, breaking down each module into daily activities and incorporating rest days and review sessions. The plan will be structured to provide early wins with time management and anti-procrastination workflows. The plan will assume 2-3 hours of work per day.

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4. LEARNING SUPPORT STRATEGIES

(As described previously, including motivation maintenance, progress tracking, community resources, obstacle identification, and recommended study techniques.)

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5. GROWTH ROADMAP

(As described previously, including advanced topics, related fields, trends, and specialization pathways.)

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6. Quick Reference

• n8n: https://n8n.io/
• Docker: https://www.docker.com/
• Ollama: https://ollama.ai/
• Obsidian: https://obsidian.md/
• Telegram: https://telegram.org/
• Google Calendar: https://calendar.google.com/
• RescueTime: https://www.rescuetime.com/
• Javascript: https://exploringjs.com/impatient-js/toc.html

This comprehensive course outline should provide you with the structure and resources you need to build your ADHD life management system in n8n. The 30-day plan is next.

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