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The flexible task timing method

The flexible task timing method

Introducing the flexible task timing method

If traditional time blocking feels too restrictive and robotic, a simple twist can help you find a productivity flow that works for you.

The idea behind time blocking – dedicating specific chunks of your day to focused work on predefined tasks – is solid. Scheduling your priorities ensures they get done and minimizes distractions and aimless time-wasting.

But strictly allocating every hour of your day in advance can also feel stifling, especially for those who value autonomy and flexibility. You may find yourself resisting and rebelling against the rigid structure set by your past self, undermining your productivity.

An alternative to rigid time-blocking

There’s a way to get the intentionality benefits of time blocking without the confining rigidity. Enter the flexible task timing method.

How it works

  1. Define your key areas of activity for a day – the high-level categories that make up your work, like writing, research, admin, meetings, exercise, reading, meditation, etc.
  2. Each morning, write down your work hours for the day. This sets boundaries around your work time.
  3. Next to your daily schedule, jot down estimates of how much time you want to spend on each activity area that day. Focus on important but not urgent tasks.
  4. As your day progresses, refer to your time budget and fill in what you’ll work on looking 2-3 hours ahead. Tackle dreaded tasks first to get them out of the way.
  5. Adjust as needed. Shifting priorities, energy levels and focus are normal. Update your time blocks to adapt while still protecting your overall time.

It’s not about adhering to a predefined schedule but rather ensuring that by the end of your day, you’ve invested the intended amount of time in each of your key areas of activity. This means you can respond to your natural energy rhythms, handle unexpected demands, and even indulge in spontaneity while progressing in your activities. As long as you’ve met your time estimates for your activities by day’s end, your flexible task timing is a success.

The magic of this method is that it balances deliberate planning with in-the-moment flexibility. Outlining your priorities in advance avoids decision fatigue, but you’re not boxed in by an uncompromising schedule.

You can stay agile and seize unexpected opportunities while maintaining a productivity framework to keep you on track. Over time, you’ll likely notice you’re spending more quality time on what matters most.

The flexible task timing method illustration

Tips for success

  • Keep your activity list and flexible time block schedule highly visible at your workspace
  • Be realistic with your time budget based on your daily capacity (around 4 productive hours for most)
  • Schedule demanding “deep work” when you have the most energy and lighter tasks for afternoon slumps
  • Be kind to yourself when the unexpected derails your plans – simply reschedule and move forward

The flexible task timing method provides scaffolding for a productive day without the straitjacket of a fully pre-planned schedule. You can maximise output and well-being by melding thoughtful time budgeting with real-time flexibility.

A little flex in your plan may be all it takes to find a sustainable, satisfying productivity rhythm.

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