How I Use Obsidian + Claude Cowork to Run My Life

Summary

Key Points

• The AI operating system (AIOS) is structured in three layers: the user's ideaverse in Obsidian, a translation layer of core maps and manuals, and external AI tools like Claude Co-work. 0:34
• Obsidian serves as the foundational ideaverse, storing notes as portable Markdown files to ensure data ownership and future-proofing against tool obsolescence. 1:24
• The speaker organizes his Obsidian vault using the ACE framework (Atlas, Calendar, Efforts) and leverages linked notes to build a rich, interconnected graph of ideas. 1:46
• Claude Co-work is integrated by granting it access to the user's knowledge folder, allowing it to read, modify, and create files within the Obsidian vault without constant re-uploading or context explanation. 3:44
• The system prioritizes AI agnosticism, enabling easy swapping of AI tools, and emphasizes data privacy by selecting models that do not train on user data. 4:42
• A crucial translation layer, housed in a separate AIOS folder within the Ideaverse, includes the me.md file (a portable AI identity), a Vault Map (AI navigation guide), and a Skill Map (AI skill instructions). 6:55
• The me.md file provides a consistent identity for any AI, while a simple Claude.md file directs Claude to read me.md first, ensuring proper context at the start of each session. 7:46
• To combat AI amnesia, a specific prompt is used at the beginning of every new session to ensure Claude loads the me.md, Vault Map, and Skill Map for relevant context. 12:15
• The Skill Map defines various AI skills, grouped into systems like the Daily Trident, Sherpa, Rock Tumbler, Chronicler, Janitor, and Courier, to automate and enhance diverse workflows. 15:24
• Practical applications of the AIOS include automated daily briefs, interstitial daily logging, accelerated learning, creative feedback, conversation saving, system maintenance, and sanitized team note sharing. 15:38