Maybe you’ve tried it. Maybe you can’t seem to get the hang of it, or you just can’t make yourself stick to it. Maybe you just don’t see the point.

You know what I’m talkin’ about: calendar blocking.

You’ve heard me say it before, and I’m sure I’ll say it again: I live by my calendar. It’s taken time for me to refine my calendar blocking habits into a routine that works for me, but I know if it’s on my calendar, it’s happening.

HOW TO MASTER CALENDAR BLOCKING

Schedule what you always do

Even if some aspects of your day stay pretty consistent, add them to the calendar. Add in the 9-5, picking up the kids, or morning commute. Keeping track of these things gives you a record of where your time goes and what you tend to do with it.

Embrace your reality

Once the always-do’s are scheduled, do you have a little more time leftover than you thought? Maybe a little less? Recognize your reality and embrace it for what it is. You can only do so much. Not enough time in the agenda for that party this week? Remind yourself to only control what you can control, say cheers, and move on.

List the tasks you need to do

What things absolutely need to get done? Make a list and squeeze them in on your schedule.

List the tasks you want to do

Now for the fun: what do you want to do? Look at the space you have available and schedule some time for self care. No distractions, no obligations – this time will be for what you want to do.

Color code! Color code! Color code!

If I’m leaving the house, I need to know it. Like really know it. For important appointments, I use bright, eye-catching colors to get my attention. For slower tasks or weekend to-do’s, I might use a softer color. Do what you need to do to stay on top of your schedule.

Leverage Task Batching

Do you have a lot of similar tasks spread throughout the week? Maybe a few calls or important emails to send? Do what you can to schedule these tasks around the same time on a single day to keep your focus sharp. When you’re in the mindset for a conference call or email writing, you can effectively mark those tasks off in a single batch.

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Q: What are you looking forward to calendar blocking on your schedule? Leave it in a comment!