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Optimizing Daily Work Structure: An Experiment

I am experimenting to devise a more efficient daily work routine. Here is the routine that I plan to test:

Morning Routine

  1. Exercise: I try to kick off the day with a workout, usually starting out in VR with FitBeat (Beat Saber), possibly supplemented by kettlebell training, Blaston(also VR), or similar activities.
  2. Cold Shower: Follow up the exercise with a cold shower to strengthen focus.
  3. Breakfast: Enjoy a bowl of healthy oatmeal, providing a steady release of energy.
  4. Preparation for Work Blocks: Ensure that all necessary supplies are ready for the upcoming work blocks, possibly preparing a quick, nutritious lentil or vegetable soup.

Focus Time

The day is divided into three work blocks starting at 7:30, 11:00, and 14:30. Each block follows this structure:

  1. Planning: Define specific goals for the work block to ensure focused and productive efforts.
  2. Work: With a clear focus, set a timer for a 2.5-hour period of intense, focused work.
  3. Review and Reflection: After the timer rings, review and reflect on the completed work, noting any observations or things learned.
  4. Break: Take a roughly half-hour break for movement, resupplying, and possibly a short walk.

Afternoon/Evening

The afternoon and evening consist of the following:

  1. Tidy Up: Maintain a tidy and orderly home to contribute to a productive and pleasant work atmosphere.
  2. Screen Break: From 18:00, avoid screens to rest the eyes and prepare for a restful night.
  3. Socialization: Engage in social activities such as dancing, meet-ups etc.

Benefits and Difficulties with this Structure

This proposed structure offers several benefits.

  1. Flexibility: The structure is flexible, allowing for adjustments as needed. For instance, the number of work-timeboxes can be reduced when spending time with my son in the afternoon. This flexibility allows for a work-life balance that suits personal needs and circumstances.
  2. Focus: The dedicated focus periods, or "timeboxes", promote deep work and increased productivity. By allocating specific time slots for focused work, distractions can be minimized, and concentration maximized.
  3. Well-being: The routine incorporates aspects of physical health and well-being, such as regular exercise, balanced meals, and rest from screens.

Weekly Review and Incorporating this Structure

The proposed daily routine is designed to work in tandem with a weekly review process. A weekly review can be used to assess how the routine is working and make necessary adjustments. Here's an approach to weekly review and planning:

Review: Look back at the past week, noting what worked well and what didn't in terms of productivity, focus, and work-life balance. Identify any patterns or areas for improvement.

Planning: Based on the assessment and reflection, plan the next week, including social activities. Set specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals for the coming week.

(I am also experimenting with AI-assisted writing, drafting the content, and iterating it through the machine)