How to set the stage for weekly intentionality

Ben Marshall Jan. 8, 2019

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We all face the daily challenge of productivity. Everyone seems to produce more and more. Where do they find the time? What do they sacrifice for productivity? Where do they get the time or energy to be consistently productive?

While there are many “secrets” to being highly productive leaders, here is one practice that is an almost guarantee for productivity. I call this practice of setting my schedule for the week “setting the stage.”

Every weekend, I set my calendar for the week ahead. I look at my Wunderlist app (an app for productivity) and compile what to include on my schedule for the week to come. These include weekly tasks and appointments, tasks or ideas I added to the list throughout the week, time for transition between tasks and appointments, downtime and making sure to include my weekly day off work. 

I try to “set the stage” intentionally, so I know and see what my week holds. I know there will be tasks or appointments that unexpectedly come up during the week that will change my schedule or even change my priorities. However, intentionally setting the stage frees you from your week being a complete mystery.

This also provides freedom for adaptability. When you have cushion-time built into your schedule you will have room to adapt when things don’t go according to plan. 

Setting the stage could allow for more productivity than you thought possible.

A few questions for setting the stage for weekly intentionality

Do you already implement a to-do list? Maybe more than one? 

What is your routine as you prepare for the upcoming work week?

How do you currently handle interruptions or the unexpected on a week-to-week basis?

Photo source: istock 

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Ben Marshall is a Pastor at Pathway Church in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania. He works with teenagers and young adults. He is passionate about leadership and raising up the next generation of biblical leaders. He is a blogger, guitar player and sports enthusiast. Ben currently resides in Beaver Falls with his wife Connie and their two daughters, Aliya and Sophie Learn More »

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