Find Flexibility, Focus and Fun with Segmented Planning-Part 3

Finding time to get it all done isn’t easy, as we all know!  Using Segmented Planning allows you to be responsive to the events and emotions that invariably crop up in your day.

When you plan in smaller chunks, you are more nimble and can incorporate the unexpected into your segmented schedule.  You don’t feel that you need to rigidly keep to your 8, 12 or 14-hour predetermined course.

Oh, and you don’t have to struggle with frustration and self-criticism when you have trouble getting back on track after being yanked off of it by interruptions, changes … the inevitable happenstances of daily living!

What about fun?

But one of the things about segmented planning that I find especially compelling is the way that it allows space for fun.  Yes, fun!

You work hard, don’t you?  I bet your schedule is filled with tasks, many of which you almost never get to.  Looking at those looming lists can be overwhelming. It’s important to reward yourself for hard work and to sometimes even surprise yourself with something nice.

Segmented planning can help here.

It’s the nimbleness that’s important.  Let’s say you’ve been working hard at your desk for hours, churning out accomplishments left and right.  You come to the end of a planned segment and look at your rough schedule for the next segment.  It’s a beautiful afternoon and, though it’s not on your list, your garden beckons … or maybe a friend calls to invite you to a movie.  What can you do here?

Well, one option would be to continue with whatever your original picture of your day had been.  Or, you could make a shift and edit your next segment, incorporating time for fun or relaxation or self-care.  It is entirely in your hands – that’s the beauty of it!

Some examples…

The more you engage in segmented planning the more familiar you become with yourself and your patterns – and the better you’ll be able to plan.

• If you’re someone who tends to work too hard and too long, then incorporating flexibility and fun into your plan will be an important challenge to take on.
• If, on the other hand, you have a tendency to procrastinate, you may want to be a little less flexible, and use your planning to help you stay at your desk a little longer.  (Be sure to reward yourself for your discipline, however.)

As you develop increasing levels of self-trust, you will find that Segmented Planning is a wonderful addition to your Time Management Toolbox!

Remember how refreshing it was the last time you took time for YOU?  How did you feel when you returned to your tasks afterwards?  How did you feel about yourself?  Have you thought about including time for fun in your day? Drop me a line … I’d love to hear how it goes for you!

What if you could find another hour every day? You can! You are invited to sign up for your FREE Finding Time Success Kit. It puts 3 key tools for your time success right into your hands! Grab it and see how you can recharge your energy, reduce overwhelm and frustration, and come to learn that 24 hours really ARE enough!

Let’s explore time together …