Siddarth Shukla

Introduction

If you feel overwhelmed, constantly busy, and like life is running you instead of the other way around, it’s time to stop complaining and take action. The solution is simple: make a calendar. It’s the first step to organizing your day, managing your time, and aligning your actions with your goals. I currently feel scattered, stressed, and out of control—so I’ve decided to take control of my time, one block at a time.

Breaking Down the Chaos: Why You Need a Calendar

Despite having a fixed sleep schedule, my days feel like chaos. I don’t know when my appointments are, and I’m constantly scrambling through meetings, dinners, and outings. It feels like I’m running from one task to another, half-finishing everything along the way. The reality is that I have no structure for my day. It’s time to stop complaining and get organized.

Step 1: Structure Your Day into Time Blocks

To gain control, I’m breaking my day into three main blocks: personal time, professional time, and socializing (friends and family time). This way, I can give each aspect of my life the attention it needs:

1. Personal Time:
   • This block is for the activities that matter most for my health and well-being: meditation, exercise, walks, and meals. These are non-negotiable and need to be consistently scheduled every day. The foundation of my daily calendar includes three essential markers: Bed Time, Meal Time, and Workout Time. By setting these key times, I create structure and build habits that align with my goals.
   • Since my top priority right now is getting physically ready for the baby’s arrival in February, I’ve joined my wife’s gym and committed to sessions at 7:15 AM on Monday, Tuesday, and Friday. On Wednesday and Thursday, I work out at my own gym at 1:30 PM. Automating these routines is the goal.
2. Professional Time:
   • This block is reserved for work, meetings, and professional development. I stick to a schedule from 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday to Friday. To keep things efficient, I try to schedule any appointments (like doctor visits) on Mondays or Wednesdays, minimizing disruptions to my work routine.
3. Socializing (Friends and Family Time):
   • I’ve learned that unplanned social events and outings can mess up my schedule. So, I plan these interactions ahead to be fully present. Whether it’s meals with loved ones or social events, these go on the calendar so that I’m prepared and engaged.

Step 2: Plan Monthly, Weekly, and Daily

• Monthly Planning: Look at the big picture and identify the main goals, whether it’s fitness milestones or important events. Get everything on the calendar so you know what’s coming.
• Weekly Planning: Break down the monthly goals into weekly tasks. Plan your meals, workout sessions, and other commitments. This ensures you stay on track without scrambling.
• Daily Planning: Review your tasks each day and mark essential times: Bed Time, Meal Time, and Workout Time. This sets the structure for your day and ensures consistency.

Stop Complaining, Start Planning

Getting your time in order means taking responsibility. It’s about putting in the effort to create a system that works. If you feel overwhelmed, take it as a sign that you need a plan, not just more hours in the day. Start with a calendar, structure your time, and watch how things begin to fall into place.

Conclusion: Own Your Day

By creating a calendar and sticking to it, you stop complaining and start taking action. The goal isn’t perfection but progress. With weight loss, physical readiness, and automated habits as my top priorities until February, this approach keeps me focused and productive. After the baby arrives, I’ll adjust my strategy again, but the principle remains: stop complaining, make a calendar, and take control of your life.