The concept of time blocking is not difficult: Look at your goals and projects, schedule time for them on your calendar, and then during that dedicated time, turn off all distractions and focus on the task at hand.
Simple in theory, right?
The implementation, however, causes many of us to struggle. We love the idea, but don’t know how to make it work in the reality of a busy day/busy life.
Ask any high-achiever for their secrets to success, though, and the concept of time blocking will likely arise in their response. When you decide what matters most and then focus your attention and purposeful action there, not only do you increase productivity but also satisfaction and fulfillment.
Over the years, I’ve come to realize two common challenges with time blocking. The first is actually honoring the time block – as in, not letting the reserved time get overtaken by other meetings or tasks. Easier said than done, but so worthwhile. I can offer tips like “treat it like you would a doctor’s appointment” or “take yourself off-site with only the project at hand” and, while useful, you’ve likely heard them before. You’ll fare better to start with a firm, inspired mindset; I recommend Deep Work by Cal Newport and The One Thing by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan, both of which changed the game on time blocking for me.
The second involves making the most of the time blocked. I can think of times where I had a full hour reserved for a particular project, then spent 25 minutes of it deciding what exactly to do!
Here’s what made the biggest difference for me in that regard, and it’s actually quite simple: Shifting to a results focus.
Don’t just reserve the time on your calendar. Determine your outcome as well.
Let me give you a few examples. Imagine you’ve blocked a two-hour chunk of time and have revved yourself up for it. When the time comes, compare the difference between what you may have reserved it for:
Write book – or – Write Chapter 3 of book.
Work on XYZ Project – or – Draft two segments of XYZ Project.
Do the ironing – or – Complete the ironing.
See the difference?
Like with anything, vague goals lead to vague results. The more specific, focused, and results-oriented you can train yourself to become, the stronger your outcomes.
You’ll experience many benefits with this subtle shift. For one thing, you’ll know exactly what you want to accomplish, so when your dedicated time rolls around, you can hit the ground running.
You’ll also have a clear measurement of success, so you’ll know when you’ve accomplished it.
In addition, the focus will provide a natural energy booster. Think of the difference between “do the ironing” – which sounds (and often feels) never-ending, dragging, depleting – compared to “complete the ironing.” You start with an end game in mind. You can picture a fresh, clean space where the pile of laundry currently resides. The clear finish line heightens your energy – even if the task isn’t one you’re necessarily excited to do. (That’s the next step: Make it fun!)
I now include my desired outcome right in my calendar where I’ve blocked the time. It requires me to think through the ‘why’ of my time block at the time of scheduling, which proactively sets the process in motion. It serves as a singular focus when the time arrives. It provides something to check off, and little compares to the joy of checking things of the list, am I right?!
This simple results-oriented shift has made all the difference! What has helped you reserve, protect, or make the most of your time blocks? Share your ideas below or on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter!
In order to honor time for what matters most, you need to know what matters most. Learn it at Spark! Click here for details.