We can all get caught up in productivity issues. Our attention span can ebb and flow like the tides of the ocean. We can sit down with all the focus we can muster, which will wane as we lose our attention span. But what if we told you there was a time management technique that could help? Try Timeboxing. Let’s take a closer look at what it is and how it can help.
What is Timeboxing?
Timeboxing is the idea that you must set aside a fixed time to work on any given task. The idea is that you can better focus when you dedicate time to a single task rather than trying to handle too many things at a time. It’s a myth that humans make good multitaskers. Our brains are not designed to do multiple things at once. Instead, we’re better at prioritizing, and timeboxing gives this a framework.
Create a Timebox for Each Task
When you look at your daily task list, it can feel overwhelming. To make it easier to manage, break down each task to put them directly into your calendar or to-do list. That way, you know that if you need to handle invoicing, you have precisely 20 minutes at 2 pm to work on it. Do this throughout your day to help you manage your time and tasks.
Use a Timer
Humans also tend to get hyper-focused when working, and you may find yourself going over your allotted time. Or you might find the opposite and feel your mind wander when you still have most of the task to complete. To avoid either situation, set a timer. Start with 20-minute increments and force yourself to focus until the timer goes off. Then you can reevaluate and decide if you need to assign more time.
Take Breaks Between Tasks
One of the most critical parts of timeboxing is ensuring you take breaks between tasks. When your alarm goes off, immediately get up from your desk. Don’t start another project or keep working on what you were doing. Step away for several minutes before returning to your work.
Review Your Tasks Every Day
Timeboxing is also handled best if you review your tasks every day. Are there things you need to spend more time on? What about jobs that take less time than you anticipated? You can readjust your timeboxes to better reflect your natural workflow.
Do you want a role where you can be more productive in the right environment? Contact Nextaff to see what we’re working on today.
