I’ve been diving into Cal Newport’s Deep Work (a must-read if you’re looking to boost productivity!), and one of the book’s key takeaways is the power of focused work and its impact on getting more done in less time.
This focus is best achieved with a technique Newport highly recommends: time blocking.
While Newport offers a Time-Block Planner, you don’t need one to start. You can use a notebook, diary, or even a digital calendar like
Outlook or Google. The key is setting a ‘shutdown’ time – a moment to clock off and truly end the day.
How to Time Block
Plan Your Day in Advance
Each morning or the night before, list the tasks you need to complete. Estimate how long each will take and arrange them in priority order.
Assign Time Slots
Divide your day into blocks (e.g., 30-minute or 1-hour chunks) and assign each a task. Be realistic and leave buffer time for breaks or unexpected tasks.
Set Deep Work Periods
Reserve blocks for intense, focused work on high-impact tasks.
Schedule Breaks
Include blocks for meals and rest, keeping energy levels high and focus sharp.
Review and Adjust
At the end of the day, review your progress. Adjust your blocks for the next day to improve.
Shutdown Routine
Have a set way to signal the end of your workday, such as checking off your final task. This helps create a firm boundary and lets you unwind.
Time blocking is a simple yet effective way to take control of your time and achieve more with less stress. Give it a go, and see how your productivity improves!
Curious how to apply this to your life? Why not get in touch with me on Instagram (@darren_green_coaching) or Linkedin (Darren Green PCC) and let's chat about how I can help you grow your professional and personal life!
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