What is Time Blocking? (with Lance VanTine)

“Time is really the only capital that any human being has, and the only thing he can’t afford to lose.” ~ Thomas Edison

What is Time Blocking?

Time blocking is a productivity technique that involves dividing your day into distinct blocks of time and assigning specific tasks or activities to each block.

Instead of having a generic to-do list, time blocking helps you allocate dedicated periods for different types of work or activities, making your schedule more structured and focused.

How Time Blocking Works

1. Define Your Goals and Priorities

Identify your key goals, tasks, and activities for the day or week.

Determine what needs to be accomplished and prioritize them based on importance and urgency.

2.Allocate Time Blocks

Break your day into chunks of time, such as 30 minutes, one hour, or longer, depending on your preferences and the nature of your work (do not exceed a 2-hour block, as studies have revealed that work productivity begins to diminish if we neglect to take a break after 120 minutes of flow work).

Assign specific tasks or activities to each time block, ensuring you have enough time for each item.

3.Create a Schedule

Use a planner, calendar, or productivity tool to map out your time blocks and tasks.

You can do this manually on paper or use digital tools like Google Calendar, Todoist, or Trello.

Make sure to set reminders or notifications to keep you on track.

4.Focus on One Task at a Time

During each time block, dedicate your full attention to the assigned task. Avoid multitasking and minimize distractions.

Focusing on one task at a time increases productivity and efficiency.

5.Include Breaks and Transition Periods

Integrate short breaks between time blocks to rest, recharge, and transition to the next task.

Breaks can help prevent mental fatigue and maintain productivity throughout the day.

6.Be Flexible but Disciplined

While time blocking provides structure, remaining flexible and adaptable is important.

Unexpected tasks or events may arise, requiring adjustments to your schedule.

Be disciplined in adhering to your time blocks and allow for flexibility when necessary.

7.Evaluate and Adjust

Regularly review and evaluate your time-blocking system. Assess whether the allocated time for tasks is realistic and if adjustments need to be made.

Learn from your experience and refine your schedule accordingly.

Benefits of Time Blocking

1.Improved Focus and Concentration

Time blocking helps you eliminate distractions and dedicate uninterrupted time to specific tasks, enhancing your focus and concentration.

2.Better Time Management

By allocating specific time blocks for tasks, you become more aware of how you spend your time. It allows you to make efficient use of your available hours.

3.Enhanced Productivity

Time blocking encourages prioritization and prevents procrastination. It helps you stay organized, meet deadlines, and accomplish more in less time.

4.Reduced Decision Fatigue

With a pre-planned schedule, you don’t waste time deciding what to work on next. You simply follow your predetermined tasks for each time block.

5.Increased Work-Life Balance

Time blocking allows you to allocate time for personal activities, hobbies, and self-care. It helps you achieve a better balance between work and personal life.