The Bright Method Podcast: Realistic Time Management and Productivity for Working Women & Working Moms

22. Tried Time-Blocking Before & It Didn't Work? Understandable AND Don't Give Up On It – Let's talk about how to time block effectively

Sep 25, 2023

Discover the benefits of time-blocking and how it provides spontaneity and freedom while still following a plan. Learn about the process of breaking down tasks into smaller steps for effective time-blocking and the six-step process of the Bright Method. Explore the practical strategies of time blocking and how it can boost productivity and confidence in your work.

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INSIGHT

Time Blocking Is Harder Than It Looks

Time blocking feels simple but is harder to implement than people expect.
Expect initial friction and skill development rather than instant mastery.

ADVICE

Put Tasks Into Your Calendar

Put calendar entries for when you'll do activities, not just events with others.
Use your calendar to capture tasks so you can plan real capacity and protect focus time.

ADVICE

Persist Through Bad Time Estimates

Don’t give up when you underestimate how long tasks take; improve your estimates over time.
Use repeated practice and adjust blocks instead of reverting to denial.

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If you've tried time-blocking before and it didn't work, you're in good company—and I want to show you why that doesn't mean time-blocking doesn't work or that time-blocking isn't right for you.

In this episode, I dig into eight common and completely understandable mistakes that make time-blocking feel overwhelming, rigid, and sometimes even defeating. More importantly, I share how to fix those mistakes so you can start using this powerful strategy in a way that actually works with your life, your job, and your goals.

We cover:

Why most people underestimate how long things take—and how time-blocking can finally give you clarity on your real capacity
Why you shouldn't start by time-blocking your to-do list (and what to do instead)
How time-blocking actually increases freedom and spontaneity, even though it looks structured
Why digital calendars work better than paper ones for time-blocking (even if you love paper)
How broad calendar blocks like "Work on brief" set you up for stress—and how to break projects down to actually follow through
Why you may not follow through on time-blocks unless you calendar everything
How time-blocking needs to exist within a larger, supportive system to truly work

I also share what this looks like inside The Bright Method program—how we build a full calendar-based system around time-blocking that helps you feel calm and clear, not overwhelmed and defeated.

If you've ever thought, "Time-blocking just isn't for me," give this episode a listen. It might just change your mind—and your relationship with time.

Links you might enjoy:

🌿 Free 5-Day Time Management Program Get five short, practical video lessons packed with realistic strategies to help you manage your personal and professional life with more clarity and calm.

📱 Follow me on Instagram Get bite-sized, real-life time management tips for working women—like reminders to set mail holds before travel, anonymous day-in-the-life calendars from other professional women, and behind-the-scenes looks at how I manage my own time.

✨ The full Bright Method™️ program If you're ready for a full time management system that's realistic, sustainable, and dare I say… fun, check out the Bright Method program. It's helped hundreds of professional women take back control of their time—and their peace of mind.