Tame the Noise with Timeboxing
- Alison Nissen
- Sep 9
- 2 min read
We live in a noisy world, one that pulls us in every direction, feeding the pressure to be everything, everywhere, all at once. But what if the answer isn’t doing more, it’s doing what matters, one moment at a time?
That’s where timeboxing comes in. Timeboxing is the practice of assigning a fixed amount of time to a task and then sticking to it. Rather than working until something feels done, you work until the timer says stop. Unlike time blocking, which schedules tasks on a calendar, timeboxing assigns a fixed time limit to a task, regardless of whether it’s finished.
The concept of timeboxing gained popularity in the 1980s and '90s as technology teams sought to deliver results swiftly, working in “sprints” (short, time-limited cycles that encourage focus and limit scope creep). However, its origins are older than recent planning trends.
In fact, Benjamin Franklin was doing it in the 1700s. Known for his intense discipline, Franklin created a daily schedule that blocked out time for everything from reading and meals to “putting things in their places.” His handwritten grid wasn’t called timeboxing, but the spirit was the same: create structure, stay present, and live with intention.
Timeboxing isn’t just about productivity; it’s about being present. Blocking time for what truly matters, whether it’s a project, a workout, or dinner with a friend, permits you to be fully there. You stop multitasking. You stop half-listening. You stop letting work’s endless demands intrude into every part of your life.
It also builds discipline around what not to take on. Not every comment needs a reply. Not every task needs your energy. Timeboxing helps you filter the noise and preserve your attention for what truly matters.
Want to hear how timeboxing plays out in real life? In our recent ABOVE CENTER® Leadership Podcast episode, we talk with Sloan Shanahan of FusionIQ about how she uses timeboxing to stay grounded and protect her energy. From carving out space for connection with friends to navigating leadership without burnout, her perspective is equal parts practical and inspiring.
In a world that rewards busy, timeboxing invites you to slow down and be intentional. Whether you’re channeling your inner Franklin or managing teams like a software engineer, the goal is the same: protect your time, be present, and honor what matters most—one block at a time.
REVEL COMPANIES
Helping organizations create winning cultures to achieve results.
Masterminds Enrolling Now!
About the author: As the co-founder and Chief Storytelling Officer of Revel Coach, a career growth platform, Alison Nissen helps leaders perfect their business pitches and online presence through storytelling. Successful executives use key storytelling points to engage their audience and gain market share because they know good storytelling is the best form of marketing, recruiting, and fundraising. Write Your Book NOW! Mastermind enrolling now.
The Revel Coach™ Blog is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not mental health, financial, business or legal advice. The information presented here is not intended to diagnose, treat, heal, cure or prevent any medical, mental or emotional condition. The information presented here is not a guarantee that you will obtain any results or earn any money using our content.
