I just got a saddle last year and am not as efficient as I would like yet but here's what I do
I use three sticks (similar to yours but mine are API with amsteel aiders on each so it's like having four full steps). First stick goes on at the base of the tree with a one-step aider. Second and third stick are hanging from paracord I have looped around one of the molle loops in the saddle. I have a carabiner in the back of my saddle that I hang my platform from. Backpack on my back. Paracord bow rope with carabiners on both sides and I clip it to my backpack. Throw lineman's rope around tree, step up to middle or top of first stick, secure lineman and then hang my second stick. Repeat for third. Once I leave the ground I don't, or shouldn't, have to come back down until I'm done hunting.
I was skeptical at first and couldn't imagine not sitting in a lock-on or climbing which is what I grew up doing.
I will say, hang your platform close to, or at same height, as the top rung of your last stick so you can use it if you need to.
Hope that helps.
