Time Management 101
Cynthia Torrez
As a business owner, wife, mother, and wellness advocate, I was blindsided by all the disruptions Covid-19 brought about. Even though I had more time being at home, I couldn't seem to be as productive as I expected. Things got more off track for our household and I was at a loss how to get things somewhat streamlined. (For my sanity) I scheduled a productivity coaching call with Reneé. During our call I was able to clearly identify my top priorities, and what an ideal week could look like, without feeling overwhelmed. Reneé listened patiently and offered helpful suggestions to put a few things into place for a manageable flow between work-life and home-life. A couple of her suggestions included using a time blocking schedule and a bullet journal. These suggestions were game-changers! I now have a plan of action (POA) that I am excited about and am able to be as productive as I choose to be. I highly recommend this to anybody who feels things just aren't working well for your day.
A Week Later: My POA is working out great! I feel much more productive, which gives me a sense of satisfaction and peace. I read a prophetic word that said something like we cannot rush time or timing, so even though I make plans and go through steps, I'm resting in God's plan as to what will work out or not. And holding things lightly!
Before speaking with Reneé about the power of time blocking, I had been a prisoner to my rigid and tightly packed schedule. Our conversation began with the news of my pregnancy and concerns over how to balance employment, wellness and child care during life with a newborn. I immediately felt a shift by simplifying my day into three hour time blocks with one hour activities or two longer goals (for example, my first time block includes meditation, breakfast and fitness). This allowed me to minimize transitions and equipment while sticking to my needs despite external changes (especially helpful during quarantine!). Two specific strategies I have implemented from Reneé are; 1) give myself two days off to unplug and 2) write down priorities for the day ahead before bed. Overall, I feel a greater sense of agency, freedom and energy because I was able to create the best possible day for myself. This has helped me visualized career goals and apply time blocking to family life, which brought about powerful conversations with my husband regarding support and self-care as new parents .Thank you Reneé!
A few weeks later: Prior to moving, the time blocking set a great intention for me. Through the move, time blocking helped me honor two days off and limit projects to 3 hr periods to avoid burning out. Your support definitely helped me protect the baby by managing my energy through the move. Thank you!
