Check out the So We Speak podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
This podcast is an extremely practical discussion on time management, routines, and accomplishing tasks for the glory of God. Cole offers a refreshing take on productivity rooted in God’s call for Christians to not only be wise in their time management but to serve as stewards of the time God has given them.
In our culture’s obsession with “getting things done,” this episode also offers a needed reminder to make time to rest – especially for those who are in ministry.
Episode Outline:
Theology of Stewardship: (3:25)
Because God has placed us in a world with the concept of “time,” Christians must seek God’s desire for how they spend their time.
Time Management and Tasks: (4:36)
Operating from a list is crucial to successful task completion. Everyone has a “sweet spot” in which they are more productive and alert during the day - morning, afternoon, or evening. For the most successful task completion, identify your “sweet spot” and work your daily schedule around accomplishing as much as possible within that time-frame.
Writing: (16:00)
A lot of people think that “good writers” can just sit down and write. While this is the case for some, most writers have to work hard and force themselves to write. Keeping a notepad or writing down article ideas and concepts whenever they come to mind is highly beneficial. It eliminates the idea that writing has to be done all at once. The best writing is broken up into stages.
Deep Work: (24:33)
We live in a world designed to distract us. These distractions range from our own wandering thoughts to an alert on our phone. It takes about 15-20 minutes for your brain to focus on a certain task and enter into “deep work.” This is when your brain is most focused, and you are the most productive. Setting a timer (with your phone in another room) allows for uninterrupted focus on a task that requires deep thinking.
Routine: (35:26)
Humans thrive on routine. It allows structure in our lives which ultimately leads to higher productivity. Routine looks different for each stage of life. Allow yourself the flexibility to veer from your routine if needed or create a new routine when entering a new season of life (marriage, children, new job, etc.) Waking up the same time each morning and sleeping the same time each night is key for routine and feeling rested.
Resources:
Care of Souls by Harold Senkbeil Deep Work by Cal Newport
Ploductivity by Douglas Wilson
Crazy Busy by Kevin DeYoung
Productivity Apps: Apple Notes, Google Keep, Evernote, One Note
Brittany Proffitt lives in Dallas, TX, holds a BA in Religion, and is a student at the Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. She is passionate about Scripture and how God’s Word impacts individuals’ hearts and lives.