So I have been using different kinds of methods to be productive in a day. The main one I have always used is the 1-3-5 method. Lately I have been trying time blocking. Today we will discuss which one is more effective.
1-3-5 Method
So I had been doing this method without knowing it had a name. As a teenager I would use planners with time blocking techniques.
- 6:00 a.m. Wake up
- 6:30 a.m. Breakfast
- 7:00 a.m. Get ready for school etc.
But I had always struggled with completing tasks in deadlines. Sometimes I would wake up closer to 6:25 a.m. and mosey out of bed, brush my teeth, and soon it was 6:45 a.m. That meant breakfast would be cut short or I would have to scramble around after indulging in breakfast till 7:20 a.m.
Soon everything gets scooted forward, and what was the point of even writing in a planner if I wasn’t going to follow it?
My Main Planner
So I started doing the 1-3-5 method. Due in part, to this planner.
It’s by intelligentchange. In the planner there are usually 5 tasks that you will prioritze throughout the day.
1.) Is your most important task of the day.
Basically, if you only got to do this one task today, would you be satisfied?
Next, is tasks 2.) and 3.) These can only be completed once you finished task 1.)
Last, is tasks 4.) and 5.) of the day. Same as the above, you have to complete everything else first.
By prioritizing one main thing, you will be more likely to hit that target before getting to the other tasks you have to do. Holding yourself accountable is what will motivate you to complete them.
By using the pomodoro technique I was able to do tasks and have adequate amount of breaks in between, it was easier not to burn out. This method is the one that works best for me.
| Task 30 minutes | Break 5 minutes |
| Task 1 hour | Break 20 minutes |
| Task 1 hour and 30 minutes | Break 45 minutes |
| Task 2 hours | Break 1 hour |
*Another important thing to make note of. You should always work in the allotted time you choose. Never try to take a break during a 30 min, 1 hr, etc. task. You can check on your notifications during your break.
I usually put my phone on Do Not Disturb, Airplane Mode, or turn it off completely. If you’re waiting on an important call or for whatever reason you absolutely NEED your phone, just try to not use it too much during your task. Remember, you’re meant to work! 🙂
Time Blocking
This is probably the most popular method as it is the default in most planners. You have a schedule and put in different tasks right down to the hour.
I have always admired people who do these. This method is definitely much more effective because you can cram in so many things in just one day.
I recently tried it myself (unsuccessfully) and it was interesting to see all the tasks I had in mind all stacked up.
I used the Apple Calendars app since I have an iPhone and color coordinated different tasks according to categories. Work, Personal, etc.
In theory, this would be a great way to get things done. I know I’ll keep trying here and there till I get it right someday. But the fact is, the method that is most effective is the one that is right for you.
If you’re great at sticking to a tight schedule, you might want to try time blocking. If you’d like more room for spontaneity, the 1-3-5 method is perfect for you!
Planner can be found here: https://www.intelligentchange.com
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