June 1, 2023
If you’ve been following my content for a while, you know I’m really into time blocking. Nothing has had a more profound impact on my productive output and health than this one practice (and I’ve tried a lot of strategies…).
What is Time Blocking?
It’s simply a way to segment your day into blocks of time, each dedicated to a particular activity or task. That’s it.
Why is it so impactful?
- It’s much more effective than a to-do list
You’re able to consider when you’ll work on something and for how long rather than simply guess what can get done in a day.
Bonus: When you complete something, mark it green (this will feel great) — You can read more about how I color code my calendar Here.
- You can leverage recurring time blocks
Using your calendar allows you to schedule recurring activities. It’s a perfect way to systemize your responsibilities while also promoting habit creation such as exercise and physical activity.
- Time blocking forces you to prioritize and plan ahead
Before you get to the doing, you have to get intentional and decide in advance what you’ll work on and when. As long as you’ve clarified your list of active projects, planning my weeks takes less than 10 minutes — You can read more about my process Here.
How to start time blocking
- Clarify what has to get done
Start by identifying your to-do’s. These could be anything from responding to emails, content creation, or executing project-related tasks.
- Create time blocks for each activity
Assign specific time blocks to each task — Ideally only 2-3 time blocks per day (if you cram too much you’ll fall behind and lose momentum). If a task is recurring, then create a recurring time block.
- Identify a new habit you’d like to incorporate
Every quarter, pick one new habit you'd like to incorporate into your routine.
- Create a 1-hour daily time block for your new habit
Set aside a recurring one-hour block every day for this new habit. Even if it’s going to take less time, give yourself ample time. Consistency is what counts.
- Create accountability
Once you've completed a block, color code it green. This will give you a visual representation of your success and keep you motivated.
When you integrate time blocking into your workflow, you're essentially installing a new upgrade to your operating system. It's like going from a manual transmission to an automatic — Everything becomes more efficient, seamless, and stress-free.
Go ahead and try it:
- Clarify what has to get done
- Create time blocks for each activity
- Identify a new habit you’d like to incorporate
- Create a 1-hour daily time block for your new habit
- Color code your time blocks green when complete
See you all next Thursday 👋
PS. Whenever you're ready... Here are three ways I can help you systemize & automate operations:
- Learn how to find, hire and manage virtual assistants → Free Access
- Systemize company processes & automate accountability → Learn More
- Let me help you automate operations and exit the day-to-day grind → Work With Me
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