Controlling your time as an independent real estate professional can be challenging. However, Cal Newport, a well-known author and speaker, states: “If you treat your attention with respect, then when it comes time to work, you can concentrate on one thing at a time with intensity. And intensity can be traded for time.” To achieve this intensity, using the technique of “time blocking” can be helpful.
Here are eight tips for controlling your life with calendar time blocking:
- Conduct a full schedule audit at the end of every quarter.
- Decide when you are not working.
- Start and end your day in the same powerful ways.
- Remember to fill in the gaps in your calendar.
- Break down larger tasks into smaller ones.
- Use colors and symbols to help you quickly identify the type of task.
- Block out time for self-care.
- Review and adjust your schedule as needed.
Conduct a Full Schedule Audit at the End of Every Quarter
First, take note of the best ROI for your time, how long tasks generally take you, where your time could be better spent, and what time of day you perform best at specific tasks. Next, set your biggest goal for the upcoming quarter and determine what you could realistically yet ambitiously accomplish in the next three months. Then, determine what it would take every week to get there and implement new systems or routines.
Decide When You Are Not Working
Discuss with family and friends, your coach or mastermind group, and schedule vacations, events, appointments, and time for spending with loved ones. Decide when you will stop working each day and dedicate time to personal commitments or relaxation. Be flexible and detailed when scheduling leisure time, as studies show this could affect your ability to relax.
Start and End Your Day in the Same Powerful Ways
A morning routine, such as taking a run or going to the gym, meditation, gratitude journaling, saying affirmations, or connecting spiritually, can set the tone for the day. A nighttime routine, such as visualization, gratitude journaling, or reading, can ensure you get enough sleep to stay focused the next day.
Remember to Fill In the Gaps in Your Calendar
When you leave holes in your calendar, you leave room for procrastination. So instead, fill every hour of every day with something that will move you forward toward your goals.
Break Down Larger Tasks Into Smaller Ones
Instead of viewing a task as one big overwhelming chunk, break it down into smaller, manageable pieces. This will make it less intimidating, and it will be easier to know where to begin.
Use Colors and Symbols to Help You Quickly Identify the Type of Task
This will help you quickly see what tasks you need to prioritize.
Block Out Time for Self-care
Remember to schedule time for yourself for exercise, relaxation, or a hobby.
Review and Adjust Your Schedule As Needed
As you implement these tips, continually review and change your plan as needed. But, again, the goal is to control your time and achieve your goals.
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Following these tips, you can use time blocking to control your life and achieve your goals. As a result, you’ll have more time for fun and family, and you’ll be able to focus on the most critical tasks at hand with intensity.
