We have all been there. At the end of a long workday realizing that we’ve been busy all day but actually didn’t finish any of our important tasks and goals for the day. That’s where Time Blocking comes in. And on today’s blog we will go over what time blocking is and why you should start doing it!
What Is Time Blocking?
Let’s start with the basics, time blocking is simply a productivity tool that involves splitting your day into time blocks that you will dedicate to specific tasks, activities or events.
You do this by pre-filling your calendar with everything you are hoping to achieve throughout the day or week. Giving you a clear idea on when you are supposed to be working on what task, and for how long.
Time blocking is a great tool to help you analyze how you are spending your time. And even identify opportunities to be more productive.
How To Start Time Blocking?
Let’s assume you’ll time block for the day (you can also do this weekly if it works better for you). At the beginning of your day (or the day before), add all your tasks for the day (or week) to a broad to-do list.
Once you have this long list of things you want to get done during the day (or week), open up your calendar. Google Calendar is a great place to get started. Once you have that ready, select specific time slots you will dedicate to each task. Depending on how many hours you expect to be working on each of them.
You might also want to color code your tasks. It will make it visually easier for you to understand how much time you are spending on each activity.
Pro Tip: Try not to have Time Blocks longer than 90 minutes. It is hard for the human brain to focus on one single task without any break in between. So if you are just getting started with time blocking, keep your blocks under 90 minutes.
This is how a time-blocked week might look like:
Why Does Time Blocking Work?
Focusing on one task at a time is way more effective than jumping from task to task or multitasking.
Time blocking is a great tool that will help you fully focus on that one task at hand. Instead of getting distracted by everything else on your to-do list.
It is also a great way to boost your productivity. Pushing you to finish a task within that predetermined “block” before moving on to your next task.
It can help you follow through on your goals as well. Since you will have everything planned out and scheduled in advance. Making sure you don’t forget or put off important tasks.
Should You Start Time Blocking?
Short answer: Yes. There are several benefits to this technique! And it will definitely help you make the most out of your workdays and increase your productivity throughout the day.
If you are just getting started with time blocking, remember to stay flexible. This tool is meant to help you stay organized, not bring more overwhelm into your workday.
Time blocking can also help you make more time for other activities outside of work. Helping you get everything done on time and fully enjoying your downtime.
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