If you’ve ever felt like your days vanish in a blur or you’re constantly playing catch-up, time blocking might be the game-changer you need. In this article I’m sharing some practical tips on how to use time blocking for your own time and life.
It’s a simple but powerful technique that helps you take back control of your schedule and align your time with what really matters. And if you’re trying to declutter your time, live more intentionally, or just create space for rest and creativity, I think it’s an approach well worth exploring.
WHAT IS TIME BLOCKING?
Time blocking is a time management strategy where you break your day into blocks of time and assign specific tasks or types of work to each block. Rather than jumping from task to task or relying on an endless To Do list, time blocking gives structure and flow to your day.
You can block out time for focused work, household tasks, rest, errands, appointments, or anything else that fills your days. It’s about making room for what matters most—and ensuring those things actually happen.
HOW TIME BLOCKING HELPS DECLUTTER YOUR TIME
When we think about decluttering, we often think about physical stuff. But time clutter—those distractions, interruptions, and never-ending To Do lists—can be just as draining. Time blocking helps:
- Reduce decision fatigue. You don’t have to constantly ask yourself what to do next.
- Set boundaries for your time. You’re less likely to overcommit or get swept into someone else’s priorities.
- Be more present. When you know you’ve set time aside for something later, it’s easier to focus on what you’re doing right now.
- Make space for rest, hobbies and the things that fill your cup.
MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE WITH TIME BLOCKING
When I first started time blocking, I was overwhelmed and stretched thin. I was juggling family life, housework, a job and this blog—and everything felt urgent and/or important. Time blocking didn’t magically give me more hours in the day, but it helped me use them better. I realised I was constantly multitasking and rarely giving anything my full attention. Once I started blocking out time for specific tasks, I felt more focused, less scattered, and far more in control of my days.
It wasn’t perfect at first—I had to tweak things, shift blocks, and learn to be flexible—but the sense of rhythm and intention it brought to my schedule was life-changing.
A SIMPLE EXAMPLE OF TIME BLOCKING IN ACTION
Here’s how a typical weekday might look using time blocking if you work from home and have kids. There are, of course, many other scenarios but this is just to give you an idea of what time blocking looks like in practice:
7:00–8:00 – Morning routine (breakfast, school run, quick tidy)
8:00–10:00 – Focused work (writing, creative projects, deep tasks)
10:00–10:30 – Break and housework (laundry, dishwasher, quick clean)
10:30–12:00 – Admin and errands (emails, calls, appointments)
12:00–13:00 – Lunch and rest
13:00–15:00 – Home projects or continued work (depending on the day)
15:00–16:00 – School pick-up and snack time
16:00–18:00 – Family time, homework help, dinner prep
18:00–20:00 – Dinner and evening routine
20:00–21:30 – Relaxation, reading, planning the next day
Of course, every day won’t look exactly like this—but having a loose framework helps one stay grounded and intentional.
There’s a free Time Blocking Worksheet you can get at the bottom of the article. It’s just one of the planning pages you’ll find in my Simple Productivity Workbook and Planner. So, if you want more help organising and managing your time, and you find printable worksheets and planning pages helpful to map out what you have to do, and when you have to do it, why not check out Simple Productivity to see how it can help you. Click here to learn more.
PRACTICAL TIME BLOCKING TIPS
If you’re curious to try time blocking for yourself, here are some tips to help you get started:
1. Start with your non-negotiables
Block out time for fixed commitments first, like school runs, work hours, meals, or appointments. These are your anchors.
2. Include blocks for rest and free time
Time blocking isn’t about being productive every moment—it’s about using your time with purpose. Be sure to include blocks for rest, downtime, or unstructured time.
3. Group similar tasks
Batching similar tasks into one block (like admin tasks, errands, or cleaning) can help you get more done with less switching between mental gears.
4. Be realistic about how long things take
Give yourself enough time for each task or block, and add a buffer if possible. It’s better to finish early and have wiggle room than to constantly run behind.
5. Colour-code or label your blocks
Whether on a digital calendar or paper planner, using colours or categories can help you visualise balance (e.g. work, family, rest, home).
6. Don’t forget transition time
Factor in breaks, travel time, or simply moments to breathe between tasks. This avoids rushing and helps you reset for the next thing.
7. Use a visual planner
Whether you use a digital calendar, a printable planner, or a whiteboard on the fridge, seeing your blocks laid out makes it easier to follow through.
8. Review and adjust
Try it for a week or two, then reflect. What worked well? What didn’t? Tweak your blocks to better match your energy, responsibilities, and goals.
9. Try theme days (optional)
If your schedule allows, consider assigning different themes to different days—like “admin Monday” or “creative Thursday”. It simplifies decision-making and keeps you focused.
10. Remember—it’s flexible!
Time blocking isn’t meant to box you in. Life happens! Think of your blocks as a guide, not a rigid rule.
TIME BLOCKING FAQS
Here are some common questions to help you block your time more easily.
1. What if I don’t stick to my time blocks?
That’s okay. Time blocking is about structure, not perfection. If something takes longer than planned or your day shifts, just reassess and reallocate as needed. It’s all part of learning what works best for you.
2. Can I use time blocking if I have an unpredictable schedule?
Yes! You can time block in smaller chunks (like morning, afternoon, evening) or re-plan each day based on what’s happening. It’s still helpful to give your time direction, even if you change plans.
3. Do I have to block every hour?
Not at all. You can start with just a few blocks per day or block only part of your week. It’s about finding a rhythm that supports your life—not overwhelming yourself.
4. Is time blocking suitable for stay-at-home parents or shift workers?
Absolutely. It works for any lifestyle. Instead of filling every hour, you can block around naps, school times or shift patterns, giving your day more flow and intention.
5. How does time blocking help with intentional living?
Intentional living is about making conscious choices. Time blocking helps you put your priorities into your schedule, so you’re living on purpose—not just reacting to what’s urgent.
6. How detailed should my blocks be?
That depends on your style. Some people like 30-minute increments, others prefer larger blocks like “morning routine” or “creative work.” Test a few methods and go with what feels most natural.
7. What if something unexpected comes up?
It will! Leave gaps in your day or use buffer time so you can adapt. Flexibility is key. Time blocking is meant to serve you, not stress you out.
CONCLUSION
Time blocking is a powerful time management strategy and tool to support a simpler, calmer, more intentional life. It helps you protect your time, focus on what matters, and build in moments of rest and joy. You don’t need to get it perfect, and your blocks will probably shift from week to week—but it’s the act of planning your time that brings clarity and purpose.
So if you’re feeling pulled in a dozen directions or struggling to make time for what matters, give time blocking a try. You might just find it gives your days a little more peace, flow and focus.
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- 10 Things To Do When Procrastination Kicks In
- 10 Great Organisation Habits to Help You Stay Organised in Life
GET YOUR FREE TIME BLOCKING PRINTABLE!
I’ve created a free time blocking printable which you can get to try out time blocking for yourself. Pop your details in the box below so I know where to send it.
Antonia Colins is the creator of Balance Through Simplicity, a website helping busy people declutter their home and life and live more intentionally. She has over 20 years of personal and professional experience in juggling work and family life and supporting individuals to remain independent and enjoy their home more. In her spare time, you can find Antonia walking, reading or planning her next travel adventure! She lives in the UK with her husband and teenage kids. Get your free Declutter Starter Kit.