She Strengthens

Regaining Control: How Time-Blocking Saved My Sanity

Are you tired of starting each day with a long to-do list, only to find yourself procrastinating and accomplishing very little? I used to be stuck in this vicious cycle, convincing myself that I was “too creative” to follow a structured routine. But the truth is, lack of discipline was holding me back.

The Pandemic Blues

Living through a pandemic has been challenging, to say the least. With the constant distractions, financial uncertainties, and modern life’s fast pace, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. I found myself working from home, stuck in a never-ending cycle of procrastination, and ending each day with a sense of dread.

The Power of Time-Blocking

That’s when I discovered time-blocking, a game-changing technique that has helped me regain control over my schedule. By dividing my day into dedicated blocks of time for specific tasks, I’ve been able to tackle my to-do list with ease and reduce stress.

My Approach to Time-Blocking

I’ve found that a flexible approach works best for me. Here’s how I do it:

• Identify areas where I’m under-investing and over-investing my time.
• Remind myself of my long-term goals and how they fit into my weekly schedule.
• Schedule deep work over shallow work, and overestimate the time required for each task.
• Allow for flexibility in my schedule, knowing that not everything will go according to plan.
• Repurpose my daily review time to plan for the next day.

The Benefits of Time-Blocking

Time-blocking has been a lifesaver for me. By prioritizing my tasks and allocating specific times for each activity, I’ve been able to:

• Reduce procrastination and increase productivity
• Make time for creative thinking and self-care
• Limit my social media usage and minimize distractions
• Feel more intentional and empowered with my time

The Truth About Discipline and Creativity

The myth that discipline stifles creativity is just that – a myth. In reality, stress and lack of structure are the true creativity killers. By implementing a structured routine, I’ve found that I have more time and energy to focus on the things that matter most.

Taking Back Control

If you’re struggling to manage your time and stay productive, I encourage you to give time-blocking a try. It’s not about micromanaging every minute of your day, but about finding a sense of purpose and direction in a chaotic world. By taking control of your schedule, you can free up more time and energy to pursue your passions and live a more fulfilling life.