People find the idea of timeboxing restrictive as if it’s policing their time. But the truth is, that timeboxing is liberating because it makes more time for spontaneity.When we’re frazzled and distracted, the joy of spontaneity goes out the window.If we don’t plan our time, someone else will. Scheduling spontaneity doesn’t lessen the joy of spontaneity; it enables it. You still have the freedom to do whatever strikes you in the moment — even more so because you know that’s exactly what you intended to do.

Only People with Time Can Be Spontaneous

It may seem counterintuitive, but spontaneity often can’t happen without a bit of advanced planning.In a 2020 study, 72% of people said they feel happier after a spontaneous act. Those who described themselves as a “spontaneous person” were 40% more likely to consider themselves a “happy person.”Of course, free time for spontaneity is hard to come by.

Planning To Do Nothing

The key to spontaneity is <a href="https://www.nirandfar.com/timeboxing/">timeboxing</a>, a powerful method for getting things done that involves planning out periods of time each day to focus on distinct tasks.Suggesting that people need to schedule spontaneity can seem contradictory and weird. But there are a few reasons that make timeboxing a surefire way to make spontaneity happen.

Timeboxing

Making a timeboxed calendar is an important step to becoming Indistractable.When you know exactly what you want to be doing every moment of the day, then you more easily recognize when distraction is pulling you away from that.Then, rather than fall victim to the vicious cycle of distraction that eats up your time for spontaneity, you’re better equipped to escape it. You can quell any internal or external trigger that nudges you off course from your timeboxed calendar.By making time for spontaneity, you enhance your ability to focus on work.

Be Indistractable

To create a weekly timeboxed schedule, you first have to decide how much time you want to spend on each domain of your life—yourself, your important relationships, and your work—according to your values.Your <a href="https://www.nirandfar.com/common-values/">values</a> are the attributes of the person you want to become. Kindness, generosity, and being a good friend are all values, to name a few.Allot a time for spontaneity in your timeboxed calendar. Each week you can reassess or fine-tune your calendar to best suit your values.

Get Started with Timeboxing

It seems counterintuitive, but spontaneity can’t happen without some advanced planning. Here's how to unleash your spontaneity.