I’m a big fan of timeboxing. You set aside a time period, turn off distractions, set a timer, and do one thing during that period. It’s simple and it works wonders for getting things done. For years I’ve touted the benefits of either 48 minutes or 50 minutes as this time element. The 48 minute period is actually 80% of an hour and divides easily into many parts (24, 16, 12, 8, 6, 4, 3, 2 etc). When you are done, you take a 12 minute break and repeat as necessary. The 50 minute time period matches the clock, and is easily divisible into 5 minute chunks (5, 10, 15, 20, 25 etc) with a ten minute break at the end.
For many people, the 50 minute time block is easy to setup and track. I use it all the time for social media, writing blog posts, writing fiction chapters, making follow up calls, exercising, and generally getting important things done. The secret is pushing the timer button. Once the clock is ticking and the distractions are off, the productivity begins. I work until the timer rings and then get up and take a break. [Read more…] about The 50 Minute Solution: Live Longer & Get More Done