In the book Atomic Habits, James Clear says, “Forget About Goals, Focus on Systems Instead”. This echoes the last chapter of How to Take Smart Notes: Make It a Habit. They share the same idea - creating the support structure for success is far more efficient than motivation and discipline in achieving goals.
The Zettelkasten method is a powerful example of this theory. You take brief notes whenever you learn something, think about something, or have an inspiring conversation with somebody. Taking notes is the support structure for your writing, and it’s all you need. The finished manuscripts are merely the results of organising and polishing the notes you’ve taken. Sociologist Niklas Luhmann used this method to publish over 60 books and hundreds of papers.