Stop Wasting Time: Use a Time Audit for Productivity

Tired of feeling like you're running in circles? Maybe you never have enough time to get everything done. Often, we don't really know how we actually spend our time. That's where a time audit can help.

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Understanding Productivity: What Does It Really Mean?

Many think productivity means getting more done. But is “getting more done” what you truly need?

The real goal is efficiency, effectiveness, and reclaiming time for things you enjoy. Think about these scenarios:

• You're working a job you hate and want to start a business.
• You want to get things done so you can spend time with family or pursue hobbies.

Does the struggle of feeling frazzled and overwhelmed by endless to-do lists sound familiar? Productivity is about tackling that list effectively and efficiently.

You might hear the argument that “Beyonce has the same 24 hours.” That's true, but her resources (money and a team) impact her ability to get things done. Let's focus on maximizing the time you have with the resources you have. The foundation of productivity is using your time effectively and efficiently.

The Time Audit – Facing the Truth About Your Time

Today we're diving into a time audit. A time audit is a crucial step that many people avoid. Why is it avoided? Because it reveals how you're really spending your time.

There's often a disconnect between perception and reality. You often think you know how you spend your time. A time audit will help you be more honest with yourself.

Real-Life Example: The School Run

My kids are grown and I no longer have to chauffeur them around. But I had a neighbor down the street with a couple of kids and our school district cut paid bussing (made no sense to me, but whatever). He offered to pay me to drive his kids to school. I know it's a 6-minute drive each way.

But that drive isn't really 12 minutes out of my day. What seems like a “6-minute” school run is closer to an hour due to preparation and settling back in. You don't want to start something because you know you're gonna have to leave.

If you're ADHD, this is ADHD limbo. “I have an appointment at 3 pm, so that means I can't do anything.” You're so afraid of forgetting about the appointment, you're paralyzed.

Honest self-assessment is key. This is your audit, so be honest! This isn't a test; no one will judge the results.

Tools for Your Time Audit: Choose Your Method

You can choose from two methods:

• Google Sheet
• Printable template

There are other apps you could use, but keeping it simple is often best.

Using the Printable Time Audit

The printable time audit uses a grid format. The day is broken into time slots (15-minute or 30-minute increments). You'll log your activities for each time slot. For a comprehensive view, try it for 3-7 days. Adjust the duration based on how consistent your daily routine is.

Using the Google Sheets Time Audit

If you choose the Google Sheets option, you should be prompted to make a copy, but if not, start by making a copy so you don't run into permission issues.

Here's how:

1. Go to File.
2. Select “Make a Copy.”
3. Rename it.

Let's break down the spreadsheet's components:

• Time slots
• Activity descriptions
• Energy level ratings (1-3 scale)
• Productivity checkbox
• Notes section

Energy Level Scale

• 1: Great energy
• 2: Meh energy
• 3: Low energy

Example Entries

• Driving kids to school (low energy)
• Working on email (medium energy)
• Browsing TikTok (low energy, not productive)
• Writing a report (high energy)

Be honest, especially when tracking social media use. Track activities from the moment you wake up and start your day. Use the personal notes section for insights and reflection. Customize the spreadsheet to fit your schedule. For example, don't fill in early morning slots if you're asleep.

Homework: Your Time Audit Mission

Your homework is simple: complete the time audit! The Time Audit is a tool for self-discovery. You will gain insight into how you spend your time. The goal is to help you become more productive.

Extra Tips for Productivity

• You can add an app that requires you to wait, like One Sec, to help prevent automatic clicking into social media.
• Turning off social media notifications can also prevent a constant flood of notifications.
• Make sure your alarms for reminders are different sounds.

I hope this helps you take control of your time and boost your productivity. Remember, every small step counts!