Do you feel restricted by time blocking?
I used to.
Until I got fed up with second-guessing myself and what I was going to do, or what I felt like doing every waking hour.
From 10 am until 1 pm if you call my phone you may not have success getting through. This is my focus time. I like to use this time to focus on the income-generating activities of my business.
If you are employed, this might be the time you focus on the most important tasks that create success and recognition in your role and move you forward in your career.
If you do not have focus time, how do you manage your hectic schedule?
Did you know that if you are resistant to creating a schedule for your day, that there's a high chance your emotions are in control of your time and tasks for that matter?
Time blocking is a productivity technique that involves dividing your day into distinct blocks of time for different tasks. This technique can be a powerful tool to help you create boundaries and maximize your productivity.
When you work in a high-paced, high-performance environment or if you have several responsibilities and you are serious about your goals, time blocking for focus time is something you seriously should consider.
It is one way to set boundaries so that you do not run around like a headless chicken pulled in so many different directions.
We all know that boundaries are important in our lives because they help us create a sense of control, order, and balance. Without boundaries, we can easily become overwhelmed and stressed, leading to a decline in our mental and physical health.
In a world where we are constantly bombarded with distractions and demands for our attention, creating boundaries can be challenging. That is why the Almighty gave us the brain to create a timed calendar.
How time blocking can help
Time blocking involves breaking your day into blocks of time for specific tasks. This allows you to set clear boundaries around your time and focus on one task at a time, rather than multitasking or getting distracted.
By allocating specific times for different tasks, you can also ensure that you are making time for important activities that might otherwise be neglected.
For example, if you’re someone who struggles to find time for exercise, you can block out time in your schedule for a workout.
Similarly, if you have a project that requires deep focus, you can block out a chunk of time where you turn off all distractions and focus solely on that task. By creating these boundaries, you can increase your productivity, reduce stress, and feel more in control of your day.
Getting started with time blocking
To get started with time blocking, follow these simple steps:
Identify your priorities: Make a list of your most important tasks and activities, and decide how much time you want to dedicate to each one. Listen, don't forget to include 'time to play jenger' with the kids. They are important too!
Create a schedule: If you are reading this you have a calendar on your phone, laptop, tablet or whatever AI gadget that's newest in this gadget-crazy world. Be sure to include breaks and time for self-care.
Stick to the schedule: Did you know that if you do not follow your schedule you are not showing up for yourself? Of course, you are not. The schedule wasn't created by a sneaky Martian who wanted you to cringe at the thought of restricting your time. And it is okay if you have to make some adjustments along the way, but the key is to be intentional about how you’re spending your time.
Evaluate and adjust: At the end of each day or week, take some time to evaluate how well you stuck to your schedule, and make adjustments as needed. Remember that the goal is not to be perfect, but to create boundaries that work for you. You are human. You are imperfect. Period. Don't let the Martian tell you otherwise.
Alright folks, in all seriousness, time blocking can be a powerful tool for creating boundaries and increasing productivity.
Most importantly have some real results that you want to accomplish during that time, that bring a sense of meaning and fulfillment in your life. If you time block to make 100,000 copies of a document, binge on your favorite snack while you wait and call it a treat at the copier! Self-care! You get my point.
By breaking your day into distinct blocks of time for different tasks, you can focus on one thing at a time, reduce distractions, and make time for important activities that might otherwise be neglected. Give it a try and see how it can transform your day!
You'll thank me later when you realize you avoided the burnout bus!
Hey there, Janet Nambi here, your burnout prevention coach. I am a recovering workaholic who suffered burnout and left a thriving business to start all over again. Starting wasn't easy while healing without help. It is for this reason that I decided to help high-achievers like yourself to bring back the energy, enthusiasm, and confidence while loving what you do.
Click here to receive weekly strategies and tips on how you can create success with peace of mind without sacrificing time for the people you love and things you love to do.