Hi JJ,
Very thoughtful piece. Many, many good ideas... ;)

1. Notes are tough for me since my handwriting is usually sloppy. In the past I got one notebook per topic and spent time, transposing to computer/translating/re-writing my notes.
2. One note taking app I found and like is Obsidian for markdown. It took a gestalt switch to understand it, but now I like it.
3. Your idea regarding scrutinizing the code base is useful but tough too since it can be dry. I have found mind-mapping software like 'Freeplane' is good. It helps me get the flow and then I can fill in details later without losing my place.
4. Finding a 'tribe' is important.
5. Recording your achievements is also crucial. I am currently trying to use Github for my notes repo. ;)

Thanks JJ,

Matt