Power of Scheduling

One of the easiest skills is also the most neglected. I remember in college constantly changing my schedule due to last minute practice changes, office hours adjustments, or trying to accommodate friends or my ex-girlfriend. My life was constantly changing, yet I strangely loved it. It kept me engaged and focused on what needed to be done. I knew I couldn't waste time since I was always one text away from changing my schedule.

When I started working, the opposite happened. My company and boss have been organized, my days are 8 hours (unless we have to put in a little OT which is rare). There is a set schedule everyday. The issue I had was falling somewhat complacent. For most people, this isn't an issue at all. They enjoy the standard 9-5, and weekends getting to relax. There is nothing wrong with this! People work hard during the week; they deserve the time off.

But what if you want more? What if you have other goals? The best thing you can do is plan and schedule. Seems easy, yet most people neglect it. They make reminders or notes, but never actually plan out a schedule. Let me give an example: you need groceries, so you make a list of what you need. But you do not plan it, instead you "go when you can." Then, you waste time in the store and buy way more things than you need. The afternoon slips away...

Why does this matter? It limits you as a person. Your time is being wasted and the days start to drag on. Here's my example, I know I want to do the following tasks during my day to reach my long term goals:

1. Run 3-4 miles a day (30-35 min)

2. Daily blog post (30 min)

3. Italian review / videos / reading (2 hours)

4. My job as an analyst (8 hours)

5. Study for GMAT (30 min)

6. Website design for future business aspirations (30-45 min)

7. PT, arm, and ab workout (15-20 min)

Total: 12.5 hours

With this, I know I also need a couple additional items:

1. 2 meals (1 hour total)

2. Assist brother with baseball (1.5 hours)

3. Daily walk for relaxation (30 min)

4. Sleep (7.5-8 hours)

Real Total: 23 hours

This leaves me with 1 hour of free time (YAY!). But this isn't the point. I can accomplish everything above with my time. I feel empowered, ready, motivated. A schedule and plan can help you accomplish anything, yet most ignore it. But why? Why limit yourself? At the end of the year, shouldn't you want to say "I did all this" rather than "Damn another year down." 

Don't believe me? Take some time looking at rich / famous / successful people's schedules during their day. I linked a great article below detailing some of this¹. They are simple, yet focused. The goals are clear and drawn out. 

Everyone should be planning and dreaming, then put it into action. Even if it as simple as "talk with family" or "cut grass" or "nap," do it. Set your day and do it. It may be hard, but you will love yourself in the end much more.

Links:

1. 12 Daily Routines: https://thoughtcatalog.com/brianna-wiest/2015/11/12-daily-routines-of-famous-people-in-history-and-what-you-should-take-from-each/