In our busy lives, the idea of resting to get more done seems counterintuitive. But what if I told you that integrating rest into your daily schedule could skyrocket your productivity and creativity? That’s what we’re diving into today with insights from a conversation between Ingvild Kornes and Kelsey from Honey Bee Weddings. Kelsey, an elopement photographer and business coach, shared her secrets on how you can create a “Power Schedule” designed to fit your life and personality while helping you get things done efficiently.

Understanding the Power Schedule

A Power Schedule revolves around three core elements: Creative Deep Thinking, Active Rest, and Mundane Tasks. Here’s a breakdown of each component and how they can transform your daily routine.

Creative Deep Thinking

This part of your day should align with when you feel most refreshed and alert. For most people, this is early in the morning, but if you’re a night owl, like Ingvild, it might be late evening or nighttime. This is the time to focus on strategic planning, problem-solving, and activities that drive your business forward. Think of it as your “CEO time,” where you brainstorm new ideas, develop systems, and tackle creative projects.

Active Rest

Active rest is not scrolling on social media or watching TV. It’s engaging in activities that rejuvenate your mind and body, like walking, especially in nature, napping, exercising, or enjoying a hobby. Renowned individuals like Charles Darwin, Winston Churchill, and Marissa Mayer have touted the benefits of incorporating active rest into their routines. These activities help restore cognitive function and spark creativity, often leading to those “aha” moments of inspiration.

Mundane Tasks

These are the routine tasks that need to get done but don’t require much brainpower. Schedule these during the times of day when your energy levels are naturally lower. For Kelsey, this is the afternoon, after her creative work and active rest. Mundane tasks might include answering emails, scheduling appointments, or processing paperwork – anything that’s necessary but doesn’t need peak mental performance.

Crafting Your Own Power Schedule

To build your own Power Schedule, start by identifying your natural rhythms. When do you feel most creative and alert? When do you need a break? Here’s a sample structure you might follow, but remember to tailor it to your unique needs:

1. Morning/Afternoon: Creative Deep Thinking Use your prime hours for deep thinking and problem-solving. This is when you tackle the big projects and creative work that will move your business forward.
2. Midday: Active Rest Take a break. Engage in a restful activity that clears your mind and rejuvenates your spirit. Go for a walk, take a short nap, exercise, or immerse yourself in a hobby.
3. Afternoon/Evening: Mundane Tasks After your rest, handle the low-energy tasks. Return emails, set up appointments, and knock out those routine to-dos that don’t demand much creative thought.

The Importance of Adaptation and Flexibility

Kelsey emphasizes that no two Power Schedules will look the same because everyone’s rhythms and responsibilities are different. It’s crucial to adapt and be flexible. If you have kids, integrate tasks around their schedules. If you find a certain method isn’t working, tweak it. The goal is to create a routine that not only boosts your productivity but also makes your workday more enjoyable and manageable.

Conclusion: Embrace Rest to Maximize Productivity

The Power Schedule challenges the traditional view of work and rest, showing that integrating active rest and strategic deep thinking can lead to better results than simply powering through tasks all day. By identifying your natural rhythms and planning your day around them, you can find more balance and effectiveness in your work.

What Kelsey wants you to know

Remember, the key isn’t to work more but to work smarter. Embrace the power of rest, and watch your creativity and productivity soar.

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Ingvild Kolnes is the host of the Sustainable Photography Podcast, an educator for photographers, and is ready to help you with your photography business. 

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141. Boost Your Productivity with a Power Schedule: The Secret Behind Rest and Creativity with Kelsey of Honey Bee Weddings

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