One of the most frustrating parts of entrepreneurship is juggling a million tasks but still feeling like you’re not making real progress. The constant switching between emails, meetings, and projects can drain your energy and scatter your focus.
That’s where task batching comes in. It’s a simple, effective way to streamline your workload, helping you stay focused and get more done without burning out. Entrepreneurs like Laura Dougherty, Rhonda Shields, and Karen King have turned to task batching to stay on top of their to-do lists without the chaos—and you can too.
What is Task Batching?
Task batching is all about grouping similar tasks together and handling them in dedicated time blocks. Instead of bouncing between different kinds of work throughout the day, you focus on one type of task at a time. This cuts down on distractions and helps you maintain your mental energy by sticking to one “mode” of work.
Why does it work so well? Our brains get tired from constant “context switching”—jumping between different types of tasks. By batching similar activities, you stay focused longer, feel less fatigued, and end up being more productive. It’s a simple change with a big payoff.
Examples of Task Batching in Action
Laura Dougherty: Breaking Down Big GoalsLaura Doughertyfrom Laura Eve Dougherty Ltd uses task batching to break her big goals into smaller, actionable tasks. She schedules time blocks for different types of work—like content creation or admin duties—so she can focus without interruptions. By batching similar tasks together, she’s able to stay energized and knock out her to-do list faster.
Rhonda Shields: Consistency and RoutineRhonda Shields from Rational Lifestyle Consulting LLC compares task batching to making kefir milk. Just like kefir needs regular attention to thrive, so do your tasks. By consistently batching similar work and tackling it in dedicated time slots, Rhonda ensures nothing slips through the cracks, keeping her business running smoothly.
Karen King: Systems Before ToolsKaren King’s secret to effective task batching? Systems first, tools second. Karen from Gold Star Pro focuses on getting her workflows in place before diving into software or tech solutions. This way, her batching system fits her work needs, not the other way around. By streamlining her tasks and choosing the right tools to support her process, Karen keeps her business efficient and stress-free.
How to Start Task Batching
Ready to give it a try? Start by grouping tasks that you regularly do together. For example, set specific times for checking and responding to emails, creating content, or tackling admin work. The key is consistency—once you get into the habit of batching, your brain will adapt, and you’ll notice how much smoother your workflow becomes.
Here’s how to get started:
- Step 1: List out your recurring tasks (emails, creative work, meetings, etc.).
- Step 2: Group these tasks by similarity.
- Step 3: Block out time in your schedule for each group of tasks.
- Step 4: Stick to your schedule and adjust as needed.
The Benefits of Task Batching
Once you get the hang of task batching, you’ll notice a few key benefits. First, you’ll save time by cutting down on context switching. You’ll also have more mental clarity since you’re focusing on one thing at a time, rather than jumping from task to task. And finally, you’ll feel more productive without that end-of-the-day exhaustion.
Laura, Rhonda, and Karen have all seen these benefits firsthand. Whether it’s breaking down goals, staying consistent, or building the right systems, task batching has helped them boost productivity and stay on top of their workloads.
Make Task Batching Work for You
The beauty of task batching is that it’s flexible. Start small—batch a single type of task, like responding to emails or planning social media content for the week. Once you see how much more efficient you are, you can gradually expand task batching to other areas of your work.
The more consistent you are with batching, the easier it becomes. You’ll spend less time juggling tasks and more time actually getting things done.
Last Thoughts on Task Batching
Task batching is a straightforward yet powerful tool to help you manage your workload without the overwhelm. Whether you’re like Laura, who breaks down big goals into focused tasks, or Rhonda, who sticks to a consistent routine, task batching can make a real difference in how you approach your workday. Give it a try, and you’ll be surprised at how much smoother your days become.
Start batching this week—whether it’s emails, meetings, or creative projects—and see how it transforms your productivity. You’ve got this!
