Try Time Blocking for a Calmer Schedule

So, you wanted to work out three times this week, and here it is, already Thursday, and you've only got one workout in. Sound familiar? I know all too well what it's like to have the best intentions - which are then derailed by all the little things that pop up throughout the week. When you have goals that are important to you, the best thing to do is to make them important. And the simplest way that I've found is through time-blocking. 

Time blocking is one of the most important things I do to help me accomplish any kind of goal because it reduces stress and overwhelm about fitting “all the things” in. Even though it only takes 5-10 minutes per week, I give it credit for keeping me focused on things that might get skipped during hectic weeks.

Every Sunday, I open my calendar and schedule four things:

1. Any appointments or events happening that week.
2. When I’m exercising.
3. Writing time.
4. A rough idea of dinner for each night.

And then I follow my calendar all week. It sounds simple because it is: what gets scheduled gets done.

What doesn’t get scheduled always ends up at the bottom of my list. And let me tell you, with my daughter living back at home and my new grand-puppy, I can easily get distracted. Who doesn’t want to cuddle on the couch with a puppy or watch the new addition play with our full-grown border collie? 

When I make time for my own self-care and my own goals, I’m able to be present for everyone and everything else in my life. When I don’t, I can easily become grumpy and/or resentful.

Try it this Sunday for yourself. Open your calendar (paper or phone), add what’s important to you, and then live by your calendar. It will truly make a difference for you!