Image source: www.pickthebrain.com
What is timeboxing? Timeboxing is used as a project planning technique. The purpose of timeboxing is to ensure that you use your time productively. To use this technique, you assign a specific deadline to each task. This is known as a timebox and when it's finished, you analyze
your progress and move on to the next one. Timeboxing offers many benefits. When you use it to schedule your workday or delegate work, it can help you and your team members avoid analysis paralysis, limit the tendency to procrastinate, and increase motivation.
How to use timeboxing to schedule your day?
1. Estimate how long each item on your to-do list should take to complete. Then set the timer on your phone or computer to alert you when you should move on to your next timebox.
2. Choose the length of time that works best for you.
3. Don’t forget to include breaks!
If you don't finish your task within the allocated time, you might be tempted to continue until you reach your goal. However, make sure that you analyze what you've accomplished and review your progress at the end of each timebox. Ask yourself the following: did you complete your work? If not, why not? How will you schedule your tasks differently next time?
You can also use timeboxing to delegate work to your team members. This can be particularly useful if they have problems procrastinating, maintaining their productivity, multitasking, or staying on schedule. Start by discussing the tasks with your team and agree on the length of each timebox. Once the timebox is done, do a review with each member and review the progress.