April 28, 2010
Use a time box to get more done and have more fun.
Work expands so as to fill the time
available for its completion.
Cyril Northcut Parkinson
Modern life often brings the complaint- too much to do and not enough time to do it.. When I am feeling overwhelmed by my to do list, I like to use a technique called time boxing. I set a time limit on some of my tasks and only work on them in that time box. This also works well for procrastination by the way. Vow to work on the task for at least 5 minutes, or no more than an hour.
Studies have shown that although we like the idea of multitasking, it does not work and often has catastrophic consequences. What we actually do is switch frequently between tasks, like driving and texting for example. This combination is so dangerous; many states have outlawed it. Time boxing would set aside a specific time and duration for texting before getting on the road and right after.
Time boxing is more fun than multitasking because it creates the conditions of flow, that state of being in the zone and totally engrossed in what you are doing . It gives you a clear goal, a challenge in the form of a time limit, and easy feed back in the success or failure to complete your task in the allotted time. It also gives you enough time to enjoy each task. Variety is the spice of life and a person who time boxes gets to enjoy a wider variety of tasks. The final satisfaction is that people who time box get more done than people who multitask because they focus more on the task at hand so they are more efficient and effective.
To really get more done and have more fun, combine time boxing with SMART goals and goals that focus on peace, love and happiness. Regardless of the goal, you can…
Use a time box to get more done and have more fun.
Affirmation
I choose the time I will allot to various things on my to do list and accomplish what I need within that time. During my chosen time, I focus completely on the task at hand to make sure I finish it enough, then let it go and move on to the next thing.
Journal or Meditation Question
Where is my work expanding to fit the time available? Where could I benefit from using a time box to limit the time available to complete my task? What would I do with the extra time if I finished my work or routine tasks faster?
To Subscribe