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Time blocking is a simple time management technique that takes the guesswork about what you need to accomplish next, so you can maximize your productivity everyday!
Some days, I feel super productive. I check off everything on my to-do list!
Then, there are days where I’ve worked on anything and everything, I’m tired, but feel like none of it was productive.
Then still, there are days where I just don’t feel like working.
Over time, between transitioning from working in an office to working by myself at home, I’ve developed ways to continue being productive.
Yes, even when no one is looking over my shoulder.
One of my favorite techniques to be productive, is TIME BLOCKING!
What is time blocking?
Time blocking is a way of dedicating chunks of time or blocks of time to work on specific tasks.
The basic idea is that you take a look at your to-do list, and schedule in specific times to work on your task.
How to start time blocking to be productive?
#1: Decide how often you’ll create your time blocks
I try to go through this exercise every weekday morning. (Sometimes on weekends when I want to get work done).
Another option would be to review a week at a time, and create time blocks based on what you want to accomplish that week.
#2: Look at your to-do list
Yes, unfortunately, you cannot wing this method. You really need something to work off of.
First, I typically look at my to-do list, for which I currently use Todoist or my Bullet Journal. Then, I pick my top five priorities for the day.
#3: Create time blocks on your calendar
The next step is to create the time blocks.
Everyday I create five time blocks every workday, and fill them in with the task, and indicate how long I think each of these will take.
For example, if I’m working on writing a 1,000 word blog post, I’ll create a block of time that is 1 hour long.
Bonus: Color code your time blocks
This step is definitely not neccesary!
BUT, I’m a bit of a perfectionist when it comes to my calendar. I have a calendar dedicated to each of my active projects, and yes, my calendars are color coded.
I make sure to assign the time blocks to each of those projects appropriately.
#4: Follow the blocks you scheduled
Now: stop organizing and get to working.
You’ll feel good about completing what you set out to do!
#5: Review and Adjust, Rinse and Repeat
Of course, things will come up, emergency meetings, a spontaneous long lunch. Don’t fret!
At the end of the day (or week – depending on your system), review what you accomplished, and what you need to move to the next day or week!
Now rinse and repeat!
Why Time Blocking Works
I’m a huge fan of this method.
Time Blocking has really worked for me, especially when I’m trying to manage multiple projects in my life.
Get more done, with a plan
Since I’ve started time blocking, I get more done, every day! I am able to cross most of my priorities off my to-do list at the end of the day.
Being able to plan ahead, and actually focus on my priorities, helps me get more done! I don’t feel guilty about neglecting things, or feel frazzled about the other things on my to-do list, because I have committed to getting this particular task done!
You won’t over commit, or undercommit
Creating the time blocks is the most important part of the process for me. When I pick my top 5 for the day, I am committing to getting those tasks done!
I am choosing to spend my time on these tasks, rather than something else, that might be lower priority.
Time blocking also forces you to not multitask, and shuffle between multiple tasks. Most of us are not that good at multitasking anyways.
Simple to implement
Time blocking is simple. You really don’t need fancy tools to work with time blocking.
You know you’re only working for 25 mins, so you instinctively make the most of it – if you’re like me…
Helps manage procrastination
I am someone who lives, and dies by her calendar, so this things process works for me. I will do whatever my calendar has told me to do today!
Commitment to yourself
Working by the time works, because I am able to fulfill a commitment to myself. It helps me stay accountable to my priorities, rather than jumping around from task to task.
Keeps it on your calendar
I am someone who will live and die by their calendar. So this definitely works for me!
I am able to work around existing meetings or appointments.
What types of tasks does time blocking work with?
I use time blocking daily, for every task, including housework.
But I do find that it works better for me when I’m working on boring tasks, when I have creative blocks, or when I lack motivation!
Creative Blocks
Often if I’m feeling uncreative or all over the place, I block my calendar for 25 minutes.
Forced brainstorming – write down your stream of consciousness for 25 mins. Without the internet!
Tedious, Boring Tasks
I also find that time blocking is great for tasks that are tedious.
Those tasks that you just need to get out of the way, but you hate doing them!
Time blocking can be useful for responding to emails, or comments. You restrict yourself to focus on emails or comments for 25 minutes. You’ll probably be surprised as to how much you actually get done!
When you lack motivation
I find that time blocking works especially well on days I’m feeling unmotivated to get work done.
Having a task on my calendar, and not doing it, makes me feel guilty.
Also, I’m able to visualize having to move it to a different day, which means that I’ll be busier that day!
It helps me convince myself that it that it’s only for a short amount of time, like 25 minutes.
Tips for time blocking success
Pomodoro Technique
The Pomodoro technique is like an extension of time blocking.
With the Pomodoro technique you work in increments of 25 minutes plus a five minute break. If you’re in the zone and being productive, just keep going. If you’re not, at least you dedicated 25 minutes to that thing you didn’t want to do!
Apps and Digital Tools
I usually set a timer on my phone for 30 mins, or 1 hour, however long that block needs to be and then just try to work on it.
There are also apps found that the Be Focused app was useful as well. There are variations that help you lock your computer so you won’t do anything, but what you’re supposed to!
Schedule your breaks
I like to schedule a 10-15 minute break after each block of time. It’s like a reward for getting things done.
That way I don’t feel guilty about not working. But I give myself the time to take those breaks and stretch!
Don’t be too hard on yourself
Some days I find that I have overextended myself, and I don’t finish that task in one hour.
Over time, you’ll be able to recognize how long each task might take. In the meantime, follow step #5: make sure to review and adjust!
Your Turn
Have I convinced you to try time blocking your day to be productive?
Let me know how you stay productive every day!
Cheers,
