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Color Code Your Calendar, Already
Arranging your calendar by hue can help your brain process the day ahead and get more done
Creating a manageable schedule isn’t easy, but you know what’s even more difficult? Sticking to it.
Here are the problems with the typical calendar: When you glance at it, you probably just see a wall of to-dos. You aren’t gaining an understanding of the type of tasks that occupy your schedule or how urgent they are. You also aren’t seeing ways to leverage your energy levels to maximize your productivity. And you have no idea whether the way you’re spending your time is in line with your goals.
A way to conquer all of this? Start color-coding your calendar.
Simply assign each type of task you do with its own color. When you create your schedule using time-blocking techniques, you can place certain colors on certain days and in certain time slots, based on urgency and your body’s natural rhythms. Here’s an example of what a color-coded calendar can look like:
To determine which color should accompany each type of task, we can use color psychology — different hues cause us to act and feel in different ways. Try this system:
Red: Your most urgent tasks
Red is associated with passion, anger, and power. It also catches people’s attention. Use it to note urgency.
Blue: Breaks or easy, enjoyable tasks
While red is energetic and bold, blue is calm and relaxing. Use this color for breaks or simple tasks that help you to rest and recharge.
White: Planning-based tasks
White often represents simplicity, potential, and happiness. Use it to highlight planning sessions.
Gray: Tentative tasks
Gray is subtle and a great color to use for events that may not be set in stone. Once you’ve confirmed the event, you can change its color.
