Structuring Your Workday with Time Blocking

Why Time Blocking Can Change Your Workflow as a Web Designer

Time blocking has been a foundational skill in my workflow as a web designer for years, yet it remains a challenge to maintain consistently. This week, I revisited my approach to time blocking, testing ways to refine the method and better structure my workday. While it’s not a perfect system, it offers control over my schedule that keeps my business moving forward.

What Worked Well

The biggest benefit of time blocking is that it puts me in the driver’s seat for my day. Without it, my schedule feels like a never-ending game of whack-a-mole—jumping from task to task, reacting instead of planning. But with clear time blocks in place, I always know when I’ll get to specific tasks, creating a reliable routine in my workweek.

Challenges: Staying Committed to the Plan

Time blocking is only effective if you stick to it, and that’s always my biggest challenge. It’s easy to get sidetracked by emails, client requests, and unexpected tasks. To combat this, I recommend recommitting to my time blocks every morning—treating them as non-negotiable unless an emergency arises. I remind myself that using time blocks for just part of the day is still a win.

A Surprising Benefit: More Control, Less Stress

I’ve used time blocking for years, but revisiting this habit reminded me of something important—it’s not about striving for the perfect day. We all want an ideal workflow, but real life happens. Time blocking provides structure, but it also allows for flexibility. Deciding when tasks will happen prevents decision fatigue and creates more mental space for focused work.