On Time-blocking

“I only write when inspiration strikes. Fortunately, it strikes at nine every morning.” – William Faulkner

Time-blocking Defined

Time blocking is a time management method that asks you to divide your day into blocks of time. Each block is dedicated to accomplishing a specific task, or group of tasks, and only those specific tasks. Instead of keeping an open-ended to-do list of things you’ll get to as you’re able, you’ll start each day with a concrete schedule that lays out what you’ll work on and when.

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Why Time-block?

Prioritization.

Rocks, pebbles, and sand analogy⁠

. If you put the sand or pebble in first, there will be no room for the rocks.

Focus. Context switching is a huge cost. Time and energy is spent to re-focus

Efficiency. This creates scarcity of time (your most valuable resource) and help you induce the

Parkinson’s Law⁠

Mechanics

Create a Daily Schedule every day

Block out time for Most Important Things and Daily Habits

Practical Advice

Block off more time than you think you’ll need. If you finish early do one of the following:

Identify the next step in the Project

Grease The Groove/

ATG Anti-sitting Routine⁠

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Prepare for the next time-block

If you find no time for Deep Work blocks, schedule them in advance (during your Weekly Review). Treat it like an appointment and protect it.

Sources / Additional Reading

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https://www.calnewport.com/blog/2013/12/21/deep-habits-the-importance-of-planning-every-minute-of-your-work-day/⁠

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https://todoist.com/productivity-methods/time-blocking#introduction⁠

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https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Planning_fallacy⁠

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