It’s been a while since I shared my thoughts on batching tasks and I realized it’s not something I’ve talked about enough – at least in terms of how much I value it. First up, if you aren’t familiar with what time batching is, it’s essentially grouping similar tasks together. From answering emails for an hour straight to running all errands while I’m already out of the house to shooting a lot of content at once (while I’m in full makeup and hair), I batch non-stop. It’s something that became even more important once I had limited time as mom and then even more important once Quarantine went into play and we didn’t have childcare.
At this point, most of my tasks are time-batched, so I thought I’d share a little more about when I do it and how that looks. Obviously I don’t stick to this all the time and get off track, but for the most part, I find it very helpful and natural.
Before I share how I batch, I do want to call out this timer cube which I use every day. I like that it’s a timer that isn’t attached to my phone so I’m less distracted if I’m not doing phone work. Next, and something new to me, is this Productivity Planner which is helpful for prioritizing tasks and keeping track of your time.
Let me know if you’re into batching tasks!
xx Ashley
With Work
Other than chores, work is where I time batch the most frequently and where I’m the most strict. The more I time batch, the more effective I am. Here are examples:
- Respond to DMs 1-2x a day
- Scroll IG 3x a day (this also helps with aimless scrolling whenever I’m bored)
- Respond to emails 1x in the morning and then one time in the evening
- Shoot content a couple times a month instead of daily like I used to
- Plan my editorial calendar 1x a month, and do 1 check-in a week
- 1x a week and day, list out my most important tasks of the week and day using this planner
- Schedule phone calls on the same day
- Write blog posts 2x a week while I’m in writing mode
With Family Time
I’m obviously not as strict with batching tasks while with Aus and George but I do a few things that I consider batching.
- Clean out George’s closet 1x a month and note what he’s outgrown
- Switch out George’s toys 1x a week
- Meal prep (make a few big batches of protein, veggies, cut up fruit, etc)
- Mom time – If I’m on mom duty, I try to be there 100% which is basically batching work vs. family time
With Chores
Chores are another area I love to batch, mainly for peace of mind. I find that by having designated times/days to knock chores off, I’m less likely to think about them and let them linger on my to-do list.
- Vacuum and clean floors 2x a week
- Do any deep cleaning on the same day
- Run all weekly errands 1-2x a week, same day
- Do a weekly Amazon order (I keep track of what we’re short on in a shared folder with Austin)
- Plan our recipes (here are some faves) 1x a week
- Meal prep 1-2x a week
- Clean out my closet 1x a month
- Clean George’s toys 1-2x a month
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