Time Blocking to Thrive
My creative coach, Dr. Lezlie Laws, introduced me to the concept of time blocking n 2016, Back then, I didn’t quite understand how it fit into my life. At the time, my days were dedicated to raising my kids and nurturing our home. I was just beginning to explore what “me time” meant. I didn’t have a traditional out-of-the-house job, and I guess I didn’t see how domestic work or family admin duties were worthy of journal entries or calendar blocks. I was simply doing—on autopilot.
Fast forward nearly ten years, and I now strive to ‘be’.
I want to be in nature.
Be healthy.
Be of service.
Be a present mother to my now-adult children.
Be fulfilled.
Be in love—with my life and myself.
And in order to truly be all these beautiful states of existence, I’ve learned that time blocking isn’t confining—it’s freeing. It liberates my mental energy, quiets the constant "what should I be doing right now?" chatter, and offers me the structure to thrive.
This year has been especially full. I’ve taken intensive classes through the Coaching and Positive Psychology Institute, coached dozens of clients and peer coaches, launched a new business, created programs, developed workshops, written content, and invested in cherished time with family and friends. My life is abundant and meaningful—and yes, joy-filled. But here’s what I’ve learned:
I can do many things.
I can even be many things.
But I can only do one thing at a time.
That’s where time blocking has become my guardrail and my guide. It’s more than just scheduling—it’s an act of self-respect. It’s how I manage my time and myself. And trust me, discipline doesn’t come naturally to me. But this gentle structure has made sticking to my priorities much more doable—and even enjoyable.
Here’s what works for me:
I color-code everything in my digital calendar. (I love colors!) My key looks like this:
🟧 Orange = Health, fitness, mental/spiritual well-being
🟩 Green = Life admin and finances
🟥 Red = Coaching sessions
🟦 Blue = Deep work (admin, writing, business development, creative tasks)
🟪 Purple = Fun and recreation 🎉
Every Sunday, I sit down with my iCal and transfer appointments into my paper planner. (Yes, I still love pen to paper!) I begin with coaching sessions (red) and anchor my mornings in orange—spiritual practice, a walk, or quiet time in nature. Then I block my support groups, work sessions (blue), and batch green life tasks together. I make sure to schedule at least two purple blocks each week for guilt-free, non-work joy with people I love.
Of course, life throws curveballs. Flexibility is built in. But these blocks give my brain visual cues to help it shift modes—and stay grounded in what matters most.
We live in an age of constant distraction. That’s why I put my phone on Do Not Disturb during coaching and focused work blocks. I also leave buffer time between meetings to give myself room to breathe, reflect, and transition with grace.
Some people might find using both digital and paper planners redundant—but for me, they serve different purposes. My paper planner is where I dream, reflect, and map my month. Writing by hand helps me process and imprint my intentions. If digital is your jam, that’s wonderful! The magic isn’t in the method—it’s in the mindfulness.
What I’ve discovered this year is that time blocking connects me more deeply to my life. I feel aligned, present, and free to create and coach with clarity. There’s truth in the phrase:
“There is freedom in discipline.”
When I know something is already scheduled, I can enjoy the moment I’m in. I don’t feel behind. I feel in tune.
So tell me—what works for you?
Have you tried time blocking? Do you have a rhythm or tool that’s helping you move forward with more joy, presence, or peace?
I’d love to hear what’s working in your world. Share in the comments!
Color blocking for visual interest and creative FUN!
Writing it down helps me to remember more, process deeper, stay present, think spatially, and follow through. I visually scan my planner at night to reflect and plan the next day. It may look a little maximalist, but as a creative person it truly keeps me engage and focused on my day.