The podcast discusses the powerful time management technique of timeboxing and how it can help overcome productivity challenges. It explores the reasons why people resist using timeboxing and provides practical solutions. The episode also delves into the misconceptions around timeboxing and highlights the benefits of having constraints.
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Quick takeaways
Timeboxing is a highly effective method for managing tasks and increasing productivity by allocating specific periods of time to work on distinct tasks throughout the day.
Starting small and gradually building up can help overcome barriers and resistance to implementing time boxing as a time management technique.
Deep dives
The Power of Time Boxing
Time boxing is a highly effective method for managing tasks and increasing productivity. By allocating specific periods of time to work on distinct tasks throughout the day, individuals can avoid distractions and stay on track. Unlike traditional to-do lists, time boxing allows for better planning and implementation. It involves setting and implementing intentions, resulting in more focused work and greater productivity. To adopt this technique, individuals should start small by trying time boxing for a day or afternoon per week and gradually increase the frequency. Time boxing is an iterative process and adjustments should be made based on experiences and changing circumstances.
Overcoming Barriers to Time Boxing
While time boxing is a proven and well-studied practice, many people resist implementing it due to various barriers. One common barrier is 'what aboutism', where individuals find reasons why time boxing won't work for their unique circumstances. However, starting small and gradually building up can help overcome this barrier. Another barrier is succumbing to psychological reactants, which are emotional responses that resist being told what to do. By reframing time boxing as a choice and embracing the freedom and constraint it provides, individuals can disarm psychological reactants. Overall, time boxing, when combined with other techniques, can help individuals become indestractable and effectively manage their time.
Timeboxing is the nearest thing we have to productivity magic, yet most people don’t utilize it. Here’s how to overcome the top 3 reasons why.
“I can’t seem to get enough done.”
“I’m always distracted.”
“Why can’t I focus?”
I hear these complaints from my clients and readers all the time.
But when I recommend perhaps the most effective technique ever devised to help people stay on track, most of them balk.
You can read the NirAndFar blog post on: Timeboxing: The Most Powerful Time Management Technique You’re Probably Not Using https://www.nirandfar.com/timeboxing/
Nir & Far, a podcast about business, behaviour and the brain by Nir Eyal. If you enjoy this podcast, please subscribe on iTunes and leave an iTunes review. It will greatly help new listeners discover the show. Please visit my website Nir and Far for other info about my writing, books and teaching: http://www.nirandfar.com/