Sometimes we avoid getting started on a task because the time commitment is too daunting. That is where a technique called timeboxing can be useful. The idea is that you set aside a box of time in which you will try to make as much progress in the task as you can within the alloted time. It is okay if you don’t finish the task, but at least you are making progress.
Steve Pavlina describes it like this:
First, let’s say you want to get something done, but there’s a risk it could end up taking far more time than it’s worth because it’s the kind of task where you might exhibit perfectionist tendencies. So you give yourself a specific amount of time, which you won’t go over, and you simpy do the best job you can within that time.
It is also a good tool for avoiding procrastination. You may dread engaging in a tedius project like taxes for instance. As a result it gets pushed back until you have to rush to meet the deadline. However if you commit to just spending 30 minutes a day on it, it can be much more palatable and your work may be much better in quality since you don’t have to rush.
It is also helpful to perfectionists who may waste valuable time striving for perfection when good enough will do. If you commit to spending 30 minutes that day on a project no matter how much progress you make, it can prevent you from stretching out the time a task or project takes to complete.
Photo by gregoryjameswalsh