As a mental health therapist serving the Sioux Falls community, I often help clients develop strategies to manage their daily routines. One of the most effective techniques I recommend is time blocking. This method involves dividing your day into specific chunks of time, with each block dedicated to a particular task or set of tasks. By organizing your day in advance, you can ensure that essential responsibilities are completed efficiently, reducing stress and improving mental clarity.
Why Time Blocking Works
Time blocking allows you to map out your day visually, making it easier to prioritize tasks and stay on schedule. Many of my clients in Sioux Falls find this approach especially useful for managing anxiety or ADHD. Time blocking provides structure, which can help reduce feelings of overwhelm and improve focus.
Using Tools for Time Blocking
When learning how to use time blocking, it’s helpful to use tools like planners, apps, or alarms. Visual aids make your plan clear and easy to follow. For neurodivergent individuals, using tools that offer color-coding or visual reminders can make time blocking even more effective. Popular tools include Google Calendar, physical planners, or time-blocking apps designed to support this method.
An Example
Consider a client who is consistently late for work and worried about losing their job. To help them, we start by time blocking their morning routine. First, we list the tasks that need to be completed before leaving for work and estimate how long each task takes.
Tasks:
- Turn off the alarm
- Shower
- Pick out clothes
- Make and eat breakfast
- Brush teeth, do hair and makeup
- Take care of the pet
- Pack a lunch
- Find car keys
- Drive to work
We then assign time blocks to each task:
- Turn off alarm: 1 minute
- Shower: 20 minutes
- Pick out clothes: 15 minutes
- Make and eat breakfast: 10 minutes
- Brush teeth, hair, and makeup: 7 minutes
- Take care of pets: 15 minutes
- Pack lunch: 10 minutes
- Find car keys and leave the house: 5 minutes
- Drive to work: 20 minutes
In total, the morning routine requires around 108 minutes, yet the client is only allowing 60 minutes to get ready. By using time blocking, we can see where adjustments are necessary.
Making Adjustments with Time Blocking
Once we’ve identified the time gaps, we explore changes the client can make. For instance, they could:
- Pick out clothes and pack lunch the night before
- Shower in the evening to save time in the morning
- Ensure their car keys are ready by the door the night before
By completing a few tasks ahead of time, the client can save up to 30 minutes each morning. In addition, we discuss the possibility of waking up 20 minutes earlier to allow more time for a relaxed, stress-free routine.
Tailoring Time Management to Your Needs
This method is not a one-size-fits-all solution. As a Sioux Falls mental health therapist, I emphasize the importance of finding a routine that works for each individual. Some clients may reduce their shower time, while others might prepare meals in advance. The key is to create a plan that feels natural and sustainable, minimizing the disruption to your daily routine.
How Time Blocking Can Improve Your Life
By learning how to use time blocking, you can better manage your time and reduce stress, improving both your personal and professional life. As a mental health therapist, I’ve seen how effective this strategy can be in helping individuals stay organized and meet their goals without feeling overwhelmed. If you’re in Sioux Falls and looking for personalized support with time management or mental health, feel free to reach out to me for a consultation.