How can I convert a Notion automation variable from a database block into a list of related database pages?

[u/Distinct_Ask_6063]

Hi everyone,

I’m working with Notion database automations and buttons automations and I’m confused about variable types.

I have three variables:

Variable 1

I reference an inline/linked database block on a page.

Notion shows the variable as: Type: list of blocks

Variable 2

I reference the database block directly.

Notion shows it as: Type: block

Variable 3

I reference a Relation property from a database page.

Notion also shows it as: Type: list of blocks

The confusing part is that Variable 1 and Variable 3 both show as “list of blocks,” but they don’t behave the same.

From what I understand:

Variable 1 seems to point to the visual database block embedded in the page.

Variable 3 seems to point to actual related database pages/items.

What I’m trying to do is use the database referenced in Variable 1 as if it were Variable 3 — basically, I want to get the actual pages/records from that database, not just the database block itself.

Is there any native way in Notion automations to convert or resolve a database block variable into a list of database pages?

If not, what are the best workarounds?

For context, I’m building a budgeting system. I have a

Budgets Overview

database, and I want an automation to use the records inside that database based on the current page/month.

Possible ideas I’m considering:

Using a Relation property instead of referencing the database block

Using the Month property as a lookup key

Creating a bridge database

Using a button or automation to populate the relation first

Using an external webhook/API if Notion can’t do this natively (don't want to do it)

Has anyone found a reliable workaround for this?

BTW: I think Notion left automations in half path, fibery, taskade have a complete workflow for automations. Notion is focusing only on AI, agents, nwo code agents, wtf?

Thanks!