Blocked for Time!

Ever feel blocked by time? Wonder what the solution is to escape the constraints of the clock?

Does your planner or calendar look like this?

I've got the answer....

TIME BLOCKING

What is time blocking? It is a form of managing your time by blocking out sections to accomplish what you want, without overwhelming yourself with other tasks.

You probably already do this for some things. You know how long it takes you to get ready in the morning? How long your before-bed routine is? You know how long your son has football practice so you can get the groceries shopped? That is time blocking.

You do not need anything special to do this. What is your usual method of scheduling? Calendar? Planner? Paper and pen?

When getting started, block out the tasks that don't change from day to day: bedtime, morning routine, work schedule.  Then add in the scheduled single events: appointments, meetings, dates. Then block out time for the rest: self-care, hobbies, errands. Choose the amount of time you want to spend on these.

What do I mean by blocking? I mean either drawing a block, using a highlighter, or just writing the time it usually takes. Combine things together that go together (like commute and work). Give yourself some leeway. Make sure you block out things you want to do as well! Relationship time, self-care.

Your week should look something like this:

Of course, it could be busier or more open. If you find it busier, try blocking out some "free time" in which you can do whatever makes you happy in that moment.

Now, the most important part of this is to NOT GO OVER YOUR TIME! This is why I say give yourself some leeway. Emergencies happen, and of course if there's a traffic jam, you may find yourself 30-60 minutes later than scheduled. Don't sweat it. Either bump the time for the next block, or cut it short if possible. Take my example above. Tuesday. Say you got stuck in a traffic jam and wasn't able to make it home until 7. EEEP! Book Club is starting, and you still have to change and take a 20 minute trip! Give them a ring, and either head in late or cancel. If you head in late at 7:30, maybe you'll be done by 9:30. You still have time before bed. I do always recommend giving yourself a minimum of an hour before bed time as "free time", to use as needed for happiness, necessity, or just winding down.

Remember, planning is not supposed to be stressful!