Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Time To Fill Out Your Calendars

To help satiate our craving for anything hockey, the NHL released the 2010-2011 schedule today. The full Ranger slate is located here and, if you missed it, the preseason games were already released last week. Eleven home games will be on weekends - three are possible NBC games with TBD times, there are two 12:30 starts, one 1 pm start and one 5 pm start.

It is hard to circle some dates (when will Jed hit town?) as free agency doesn't hit for over a week but there are still some notables:

*The Blueshirts can exact some revenge for the final game of last season when they face the Flyers for the first time in Philly on November 4th.

*While we won't get to see much of the Central division (BOOOO), the Northwest teams will come through. That means that someone will hopefully remember to get revenge for last season's Curtis Glencross hit on Chris Drury when Calgary comes in on November 22nd.

*Mmmmmmmaaaaaaarrrrrrrrrtttttttttttyyyyyyyy vs Avery 2010-11 kicks off on October 24th - the seventh game of the season. It ends with the very last game of the season - which luckily will be on Garden ice - Saturday, April 9th.

*Captain Sloppy Seconds will be here with the Leafs at the home opener on Friday, October 15th. The Rangers also face Toronto in Toronto on October 21st and October 30th; January 19th is the second home game.

*The other Original Six matchups? The reigning Cup winning Blackhawks come to the garden on November 1st. We play all four games against Montreal after New Years (1/11, 1/15, 2/5 and 3/18). Boston is scattered across the schedule - October 23rd, November 17th, March 26th and April 4th. We head to Detroit February 7th.

*For season ticket holders, in case you need to sell some games for good money, Crosby comes to the Garden on November 29th, February 1st and 13th while Ovie hits town November 9th and December 12th.



 "Time to Fill Out Your Calendars: Mastering the Art of Effective Time Management"



Calendars are powerful tools that help us organize our lives, plan our activities, and make the most of our time. Whether it's for work, personal commitments, or both, a well-maintained calendar can be your secret weapon for achieving your goals and reducing stress. In this article, we'll explore the art of effective time management through calendar use, offering tips and strategies to help you optimize your schedule and make the most of every day.

The Role of Calendars in Time Management

Organization: Calendars provide structure to our days and weeks. They allow us to see at a glance what needs to be done, reducing the risk of forgetting important tasks or appointments.

Prioritization: By using a calendar, you can prioritize your tasks and allocate time to the most important ones. This prevents you from being overwhelmed by a long to-do list.

Time Blocking: Time blocking is a technique where you allocate specific time slots to different tasks or activities. This approach helps you stay focused and make efficient use of your time.

Goal Setting: Calendars are valuable tools for setting and tracking your goals. You can break down larger goals into smaller, actionable steps and schedule them on your calendar.

Effective Calendar Management Strategies

Use a Digital Calendar: Digital calendars like Google Calendar, Apple Calendar, or Microsoft Outlook offer features like reminders, syncing across devices, and the ability to share calendars with others.

Set Clear Priorities: Start each day by identifying your top priorities. These are the tasks that must be completed, no matter what. Schedule them in your calendar first.

Time Blocking: Allocate specific time blocks for different types of activities. For example, set aside dedicated blocks for work, exercise, family time, and relaxation.

Batch Similar Tasks: Group similar tasks together in your calendar. This minimizes context switching and improves focus. For example, you can schedule all your meetings in one block.

Include Buffer Time: Don't forget to include buffer time between appointments or tasks. This gives you breathing room and prevents over-scheduling.

Review and Adjust: Regularly review your calendar to ensure you're staying on track. Adjust your schedule as needed to accommodate changes or unexpected events.

FAQs on Calendar Management

1. Is it better to use a digital calendar or a physical one?

The choice between digital and physical calendars depends on your preferences and needs. Digital calendars offer convenience and features, while physical ones can provide a tangible sense of accomplishment. Many people use a combination of both.

2. How do I avoid over-scheduling or feeling overwhelmed?

To avoid over-scheduling, be realistic about how much time tasks will take. Include buffer time in your schedule, and don't hesitate to say no to additional commitments when your calendar is already full.

3. What's the best way to handle unexpected changes or disruptions?

Flexibility is key. When unexpected changes occur, reschedule or adjust your calendar as needed. Try to maintain a mindset of adaptability and resilience.

4. How can I make sure I stick to my calendar and avoid procrastination?

Accountability is important. Share your calendar or goals with a friend or colleague who can help keep you on track. Additionally, use techniques like the Pomodoro Technique to stay focused and avoid procrastination.

5. Should I schedule downtime and relaxation on my calendar?

Yes, scheduling downtime and relaxation is just as important as scheduling work or tasks. It ensures you prioritize self-care and prevents burnout.



Your calendar is more than just a tool to track appointments; it's a strategic instrument for managing your time effectively and achieving your goals. By following the principles of organization, prioritization, and time blocking, you can transform your calendar into a roadmap for success.

Remember that effective calendar management is a skill that can be developed over time. It requires consistency, adaptability, and a commitment to making the most of your precious hours. So, as you fill out your calendars, keep in mind that you're not just scheduling tasks; you're investing in a more organized, productive, and fulfilling life.




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