For a select amount of weeks this summer, I had some time to myself to research and establish a regimented schedule, and it has been one of the toughest tasks I've ever faced. To be honest, I still haven't established a schedule that is satisfying, so I've decided to highlight some of the problems that I have overcome and some of the problems that I still face.
1. Exercise
The most important step about exercise is to clarify what your objective is. Are you trying to bulk up, lose weight, or just stay fit? Each goal comes with its own set of blocks of time that need to be allocated.
2. Taking Breaks
Okay, so downtime is very important, if not vital, to a regimented schedule. It prevents burnout and helps with the gathering of thoughts. However, once downtime has been specified, it is absolutely crucial to not take breaks during your other activities. Sooner or later, you'll realize that you are so far behind with the day's activities because you let small breaks lead to large chunks of time. If you have allocated time for taking breaks, be diligent about that, and if you keep breaking the schedule, you might want to re-consider when you are taking your breaks.
3. Sleep
While studies show that seven to eight hours of sleep lead to great cognitive function, sleep is a highly subjective topic. The amount of sleep that you need is something that only you can evaluate through experimentation. Try sleeping for different periods of time and realize what works best for you. The best sleep is when you are feeling the most energized during daytime.
4. Spontaneity
Establishing a schedule minute by minute may have some drawbacks. When creating your schedule, you must allocate time in terms of priority. Set blocks of time for what is the most important for you at the moment and go from there. This integrates an inherent concept of spontaneity within your schedule. If an emergency comes up, you know which task means more to you than other tasks, and you will be able to adjust accordingly.
5. Experiment
Failing to abide by a made schedule mostly means that the tasks listed are not motivating enough, or the expectations that have been set are too rigorous for the moment. Remember that even a regimented schedule operates in a state of flux. Your schedule is bound to change -- what is a priority to you now probably won’t be a priority to you for the rest of your life, so don’t be afraid to start off small and build your way up. If something becomes too demanding for you, trim it down and progress slowly. If you have most of your tasks planned for the evening and you get tired, try doing the tasks in the morning instead. As firm as a schedule is, it is nonetheless a representation of yourself, and is an aid in helping you clarify what productivity means to you. So don’t get trapped within the walls of the schedule -- remember that the schedule is a reflection of you, so if something does not work even after heavy effort, evaluate, re-consider and try something different. If you still face barriers, seek help and information. The work you put in to make your schedule is just as important as the schedule itself.
