Skulltistics 101: Time Studies & Time Blocking
Libra season is about balance, harmony, and alignment—making it the perfect time to look closely at how we use our time. One of the most powerful ways to do that? Pairing time studies with time blocking.
A Quick History
Time studies go back to the late 1800s, pioneered by Frederick Winslow Taylor, who analyzed factory tasks down to the minute to improve efficiency. Over time, this evolved beyond industry into modern productivity methods. Today, we use time studies not to wring every ounce of output, but to create awareness of how we actually spend our hours.
Time blocking—popularized by productivity thinkers from Benjamin Franklin to modern-day Cal Newport—is the natural next step. It’s the practice of setting aside specific blocks of time for particular tasks, instead of winging it.
How-To: Time Studies + Time Blocking
Track Your Time – For a few days, log what you’re actually doing, hour by hour.
Review the Data – Where are your biggest drains? What gets too little attention?
Define Priorities – What really deserves your focus?
Block Your Calendar – Assign chunks of time to your priorities (deep work, admin, self-care, rest). FYI - this is different than the Pomodoro technique.
Adjust with Intention – Keep checking in: does your schedule feel balanced and realistic?
Where to Use It
Professionally: Build more intentional workdays, reduce meeting overload, and ensure big projects get focus time.
Personally: Balance family, wellness, creativity, and rest without losing track of yourself.
Why It Benefits All the Elements
Air (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius): Brings structure to scattered energy and ensures their ideas get airtime.
Earth (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn): Provides a data-driven framework that helps them move forward.
Fire (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius): Channels high energy into meaningful bursts without burning out.
Water (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces): Creates safe containers for emotions and energy flow, reducing overwhelm.
Libra season invites us to weigh, measure, and rebalance. Time studies show you the truth; time blocking helps you choose your next move with intention.