Calendar blocking and other techniques to help you thrive in the madness
The first quarter of the year for many businesses and organizations brings a whirlwind of excitement and frenzy. With new year plans rolling out, new initiatives and goals, our calendars can begin filling quickly. Amidst the chaos, it’s crucial to prioritize self-care to maintain balance. At Freestyle, we’re sharing some of our tricks to help you stay happy, healthy, and on track during this bustling time.
Before we dive in, here are some questions we’d like for you to ask yourself:
- Do you control your calendar or does it control you?
- When you look back at how you spent your time, do you feel content?
- Do you feel that your day was balanced?
- At the start of your day, do you feel rested and prepared, or do you feel behind before you even begin?
Were the answers what you wanted them to be? If not, let us help you! In this blog, we will discuss some tips and strategies to help you navigate through this busy period while still prioritizing your well-being.
Try calendar blocking
One effective way to manage your time during this busy season is through calendar blocking. By setting aside specific blocks of time for different tasks and activities, you can ensure that you stay organized and focused.
Start by creating a calendar roadmap to what your week needs to look like. This means writing out all of the tasks you know need to get done each day for the whole week. Block each task with a designated time slot for how long that task will take.
Pro tip: It’s recommended to overestimate the time you think it may take to complete a task. Once you get into a routine, then calibrate your time for how long that task takes in the coming weeks.
When you are calendar blocking, remember to include breaks and don’t overschedule your free time. Free time is crucial to allowing time for all of the “other” things you want to get to. Always try to stay flexible. If a task takes longer than you thought, or you have interruptions – don’t fret, just go back and adjust your blocks.
Feel free to use technology to your advantage. There are many email extensions you can download or you can start by using a built-in task manager with your preferred labeling system. Color coding your categories visually helps you stay apprised of how much time you spend in specific categories throughout the week.
Not sure where to start with your tasks? Try task batching! This involves grouping similar tasks in the same period. Day theming is also a great way to organize your thoughts. Do this by dedicating each day to a particular theme or type of work. Lastly, there’s time boxing, which is setting a specific amount of time for each task and sticking to it – no matter what.
Any of these calendar blocking methods can help prevent you from feeling scattered and stressed out with your calendar, allowing you to approach each day with a clear plan in mind.
Add some breathing room to your day
Another important aspect of self-care during busy times is to make sure you schedule some breathing room. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle, but it’s crucial to give yourself some time to relax and recharge in your productive day. Whether it’s taking a short walk outside, practicing mindfulness or meditation for 15 minutes, or simply padding some time before and after your meeting to allow for quiet prep time and time to figure out the next steps. Finding moments of calm can help you stay grounded and centered.
Incorporate self-care practices into your routine
In addition to task management and relaxation techniques, incorporating self-care practices into your routine can also make a big difference. This can include things like getting enough sleep, eating well-balanced meals, staying hydrated, and engaging in physical activity. Taking care of your physical health can have a positive impact on your mental well-being, helping you feel more energized and resilient during this busy time.
Overall, managing your madness effectively involves finding a balance between productivity and self-care. When implementing strategies like calendar blocking, creating breathing room in your schedule, and prioritizing self-care practices, you can navigate through this hectic period with greater ease and grace. Remember to be kind to yourself and listen to your body’s needs, as taking care of yourself is essential for thriving in the madness.