Grace Beverley Time Boxed Planning

The Grace Beverley planning routine splits daily tasks into quick ticks and deep project blocks to preserve energy.

5 time blocks, 30 minutes in total.

Time blocks

  1. Brain Dump All Pending Tasks: 5 min
    Write down every task, idea, and obligation on paper
  2. Categorize Quick Ticks and Projects: 5 min
    Flag five-minute tasks separately from deep project work
  3. Schedule Deep Focus Project Blocks: 10 min
    Place high-energy project tasks directly into calendar blocks
  4. Batch Quick Ticks into Specific Windows: 5 min
    Group minor tasks into single timed work sessions
  5. Set Buffer Time and Energy Boundaries: 5 min
    Build breaks between blocks to prevent overload

About this routine

In her book Working Hard, Hardly Working, founder Grace Beverley outlines a time-boxed system to prevent burnout. The Grace Beverley planning routine categorizes work by energy demands rather than simple list order.

The core structure separates quick ticks, which are small admin items taking under five minutes, from larger project tasks that demand focused effort. Grouping small tasks together prevents constant context switching throughout the day.

By mapping these blocks directly onto a visual schedule, you set clear boundaries for work and rest. Setting explicit buffers between focused sessions keeps energy steady and makes daily workloads manageable.

Why this routine works

  • Reduces context switching by grouping small admin tasks
  • Protects focus for complex project work
  • Prevents daily burnout with built-in time buffers
  • Creates a clear visual layout of real working capacity

FAQ

What is the Grace Beverley planning routine?

It is a time-boxing system detailed in Working Hard, Hardly Working that splits daily to-dos into quick ticks and deep project blocks.

What are quick ticks in the Grace Beverley planning system?

Quick ticks are minor admin items that take under five minutes, which are batched together rather than scattered across the day.

How long does this planning session take?

The initial planning session takes 30 minutes at the start of the workday.

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