Learn to love time-blocking!
As a professional organizer and productivity and time-management geek, I’m always on the hunt for ways to squeeze more out of my day. I know you are too – you’ve got work, family, friends, errands and about a million other obligations pulling you in every direction. There just aren’t enough hours in the day, right?
That’s why I love this little strategy called time blocking. Time blocking is a simple yet powerful way to take control of your schedule so you can get more done with less stress.

Here’s what to do: you block off specific chunks of time in your calendar, assigning each block to a single task. For example, Monday from 9-11AM could be Block #1 for answering emails. Tuesday from 2-4PM could be Block #2 for knocking out that big project. Wednesday from 8-10AM could be Block #3 for meal planning and grocery shopping. You get the idea.

By assigning set blocks of time to specific tasks, you free your mind from having to figure out what to do next. The time has already been designated – all you have to do is follow your schedule. Talk about liberating!
I know what some of you may be thinking… I’m way too busy for this. I don’t have big blocks of free time just sitting around. But here’s the secret: YOU get to create the time blocks. Take control and schedule them into your calendar before anything else. Protect that time fiercely and don’t allow other obligations to encroach. You’d be amazed at how much you can accomplish when you dedicate focused blocks of time to your priorities.

To help you get started, here are a few of my favorite tips for time blocking success:
Tip #1: Identify 3-5 top priorities and assign them each a recurring time block. This ensures your most important tasks don’t get lost in the shuffle.
Tip #2: Schedule time blocks for self-care too – exercise, meal prep, family time. Don’t become so task-oriented that you forget to refuel.
Tip #3: Build in buffers between blocks to account for transitions and interruptions. Trying to schedule back-to-back is asking for trouble.
Tip #4: Start small with 30-60 minute blocks as you get the hang of it. You can always increase the time as it becomes more natural.
Tip #5: Use a planner, calendar or app to map out your blocks. I like to color code them for an at-a-glance visual.
Tip #6: Reflect each week on what worked and what didn’t, then tweak your blocks accordingly. This strategy evolves as your needs change.
Can you feel the sense of control and accomplishment time blocking provides? I sure do. I love it! And I know you will too, once you make it part of your routine.
So grab your planner and map out those time blocks, superstar! You’ve got big things to tackle – and now you’ve got the time and focus to make it happen.
Let me know how it goes! I’m cheering you on as you become the productive powerhouse I know you can be. Now block out some time to celebrate your awesomeness!
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