The FLOW Framework for n8n Automation

Stop overthinking, start building

Staring at n8n thinking "wtf do I automate first?" Been there. After building 100+ workflows, I distilled my process into something I call FLOW Framework. Here's how it works:

F - Find the Problem & Fix

Look for boring, repetitive tasks (boring = beautiful for automation!)

  • What drives you crazy?
  • What takes too much time?
  • Where do errors happen?

Write ONE sentence about what you want to fix.

L - Lay out the Path

Grab paper & draw it

  • What triggers it?
  • What happens next?
  • Where does it end?

Break it down like you'd explain to a 5 year old.

Just drawing it makes everything clearer.

O - Operate & Build

  • Jump into n8n
  • Pick trigger node
  • Add action steps
  • Connect everything
  • Test each step as you go

Don't aim for perfect -> aim for WORKING

Ship your messy work NOW

W - Watch & Win

  • Run real tests
  • Flip that switch to ON
  • Watch the magic happen

How much time did you save?

What headaches did you avoid?

Celebrate before thinking about improvements.

Start Your Automation Journey

This framework helped me stop overthinking and start building.

One real workflow beats 100 perfect ideas that never see daylight.

Source: @philrox_ on X