In pursuit of being as productive and happy as possible, my work routine is often experimented with.
Many people have become more conscious of their work routines too since COVID 19’s spread. See the spike in searches for the term “work routine” worldwide in March and April 2020.
“Three Thirds” work routine
The “Three Thirds” routine that I’ve stuck with over the last two years has enabled me to achieve more than any previous routine.
It centres around splitting your day into three thirds rather than two halves.
I have outlined how each third is spent below:
1st Third | 7.30am - 11am
This is when I get the majority of my “deep work” done.
This third is typically less interrupted than other parts of the day. It’s also when I am at my freshest.
During this third, I focus on:
– big platform updates
– website migrations
– tackling any of the more difficult issues which clients may be facing
Lunch | 11am - 12pm
Lunch involves the €5.95 Dunnes Stores lunchbox deal every day.
I opt for turkey and three salads. If I eat beef, ham or a baguette I will be sluggish in the afternoon.
2nd Third | 12pm - 3.30pm
The 2nd third is mostly occupied with meetings, calls and communicating with clients and customers.
Although this period feels less productive than the others, it’s important to communicate with your clients and customers!
Exercise | 4pm - 5pm
Exercise involves either:
1) topless running along the canal
2) workouts in the back garden
3rd Third | 6pm - 9pm
Having just done a workout, showered and eaten – I feel totally refreshed when starting the final third.
Evenings are also generally quite relaxing and there are less distractions.
Given the relaxed state of mind and increased focus, this is when I do strategic work:
– working on the business rather than in the business
– preparing digital strategies for clients
– planning the next day
Conclusion
Although the “Three Thirds” work routine is serving me well, it could be better 😉
One hypothesis I have is to start the 1st third earlier (potentially 6.30am) and increase deep work time.
I would love to know what works for other people.
As always, thank you for reading 🙂
Gary
