Master Your Schedule with Time Blocking

That’s a wrap on SXSW - the Creator Match team was in full force, attending over 20 events and sessions, co-hosting 3 events, and pulling off a short-notice, fully branded activation with over 100 guests for one of our clients. To say we were busy is an understatement!

Many long nights and weekends were spent keeping up with everyday responsibilities, which was a keen reminder of the importance of blocking time to do focus work, even at an event like SXSW.

Have you ever felt like the day just slipped away, leaving you wondering where all your time went? Amidst the flurry of emails, meetings, and unexpected interruptions, it's common to end the day without having advanced your key priorities. To ensure you make meaningful progress, it's crucial to take control of your schedule before others do it better then you.

That’s where time blocking comes in—a simple yet powerful productivity technique that helps you take control of your schedule, reduce distractions, and get more done without feeling overwhelmed.

What is Time Blocking?

Time blocking is the practice of scheduling specific blocks of time for different tasks or categories of work. Instead of bouncing between emails, phone calls, and deep work, you set aside dedicated time for each, ensuring that your priorities don’t get lost in the chaos of the day.

Think of your calendar as a blueprint for your day. By assigning time slots for essential activities, you create a structured approach to work, allowing you to focus fully on one task at a time.

Why does Time Blocking Work so well? 

✅ Eliminates Multitasking – Studies show that multitasking reduces productivity and increases stress. Time blocking helps you focus on one thing at a time, making you more efficient.

✅ Prevents Overwhelm – When your day is planned in advance, you know exactly when you’ll tackle important tasks, reducing decision fatigue and anxiety.

✅ Helps You Prioritize – Instead of reacting to what comes up, you proactively schedule time for your most valuable work.

✅ Creates Boundaries – It’s easy to let work spill into personal time. Time blocking helps you set limits, ensuring a better work-life balance.

How can you Get Started with Time Blocking

1. Identify Your Priorities

Before you start blocking time, make a list of your essential tasks. What needs your deep focus? What tasks can be grouped together?

2. Plan Your Day in Advance

At the end of each day (or first thing in the morning), map out your schedule. Assign time slots for deep work, meetings, admin tasks, and even breaks.

3. Batch Similar Tasks Together

Instead of checking emails throughout the day, set specific time blocks for responding to messages. The same goes for meetings—try to schedule them back-to-back to minimize interruptions.

4. Protect Your Focus Time

Your deep work blocks should be treated like a meeting with your most important client—non-negotiable. Set your status to “Do Not Disturb,” turn off notifications, and let others know when you’re unavailable.

5. Be Flexible but Consistent

Things will come up, and plans will shift. That’s okay! The goal is to have a structured plan that gives you control, not to be rigid. If something urgent arises, adjust your schedule, but don’t abandon it altogether.

Try applying time blocking this week, even if it’s just for a few key tasks. You’ll be surprised how much more you accomplish—and how much calmer your workday feels.