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Mastering Your Workday with the “Time Blocking” Technique

In GME, it can feel like you’re juggling a million tasks at once—onboarding new residents, managing evaluations, prepping for GMEC meetings, and more. The constant stream of responsibilities and interruptions can make staying productive seem like an impossible feat. That’s where the time-blocking technique can transform your workflow.

Time blocking is a simple yet powerful time management strategy that involves dedicating specific blocks of uninterrupted time to focus on priority tasks. Let’s explore how this method can help you stay organized, meet deadlines, and minimize stress.


What Is Time Blocking?

Time blocking is scheduling your workday into chunks of focused activity, each assigned to a specific task or set of functions. Instead of reacting to tasks as they arise, you proactively plan when and how to tackle them.

For example:

9:00–10:30 AM: Respond to emails and clear administrative backlog.

1:00–2:30 PM: Review evaluations and prepare for the upcoming GMEC meeting.

3:00–4:00 PM: Update accreditation documentation.


By assigning specific times for your responsibilities, you gain better control over your day and can dedicate your full attention to critical tasks.

Let's be productive
Let's be productive

Why Time Blocking Works

1. Increases Focus

When you set aside uninterrupted time to work on one task, you reduce distractions and the temptation to multitask. This leads to higher-quality work in less time.

2. Minimizes Decision Fatigue

Instead of constantly deciding what to work on next, you follow a predefined schedule. This frees up mental energy for the tasks at hand.

3. Reduces Interruptions

Time blocking helps you set boundaries with colleagues. By communicating your schedule, you signal when you’re available and when you need to focus.

4. Promotes Work-Life Balance

Blocking time ensures you allocate space for high-priority work, preventing last-minute scrambles and allowing you to leave work on time.


How to Implement Time Blocking in GME


1. Identify Your Priorities

Start by listing all the tasks you need to accomplish for the week. Group them by priority and complexity. For example:

  • High priority: Reviewing evaluations, preparing for meetings, and onboarding.

  • Medium priority: Updating databases or creating schedules.

2. Dedicate Specific Time Blocks

Assign blocks of time to your most important tasks. For example:

  • Morning: Handle administrative tasks and emails.

  • Afternoon: Focus on program-specific projects like curriculum planning or meeting preparation.

3. Communicate with Your Team

Let your team know when you’ve blocked out time for focused work. A quick email or calendar update can help manage expectations. For instance:

“Hi team, I’ve blocked 1:00–3:00 PM today to focus on evaluations. Please hold non-urgent questions until after 3:00 PM, or send me an email if something can’t wait. Thank you!”

4. Protect Your Time

Please stick to your schedule and avoid the urge to deviate unless it’s an emergency. Use tools like “Do Not Disturb” mode on your devices or set your status to “Busy” on communication platforms.


Time Blocking in Action: A Real-Life Example

Let’s say you’re preparing for an upcoming GMEC meeting while onboarding new interns. Without a plan, the constant interruptions and urgent tasks can derail your focus. But with time blocking:

  • From 9:00–10:30 AM, you dedicate time to onboarding tasks like answering resident questions and coordinating hospital tours.

  • From 1:00–2:30 PM, you focus exclusively on reviewing evaluations and preparing your meeting agenda.

  • By 3:00 PM, you’re available to address team concerns or urgent matters.


This structured approach ensures that your program responsibilities don’t fall through the cracks while prioritizing your interns’ needs.


Tips for Time-Blocking Success

  • Start Small: Begin with one or two blocks per day and gradually expand as you get comfortable.

  • Be Realistic: Avoid overloading your day with back-to-back blocks. Leave room for breaks and flexibility.

  • Review and Adjust: At the end of the week, reflect on what worked and tweak your schedule as needed.


Unlocking Productivity in GME

Time blocking is more than just a time management technique—it’s a way to take control of your workday and prioritize what matters most. By dedicating blocks of focused time and communicating your schedule with your team, you can conquer even the busiest onboarding seasons without sacrificing your program’s regular tasks.

Ready to give it a try? Start small, stay consistent, and watch your productivity soar!


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