Biiiiiiig promises in that title, am I right? My hope for you by the time we reach the end of this post, is that you:
Understand how the time of day affects your productivity and mood.
Can reflect honestly on how you allocate your time.
Learn how to make more informed decisions about what you give your time and energy to.
So buckle up, y'all. This post includes some of my all-time favorite behavior-change tactics!
Have you ever reached the end of the day and wondered where the time went? You started with the best intentions, but somehow, distractions, fatigue, and the never-ending to-do list got in the way. Sound familiar? You’re not alone. But the good news? There’s a better way to structure your day to maximize your energy, focus, and success.
Mel Robbins, a powerhouse in the world of motivation and habit formation, breaks down the day into five key zones: The Green Zone, Yellow Zone, Red Zone, Dead Zone, and Dream Zone. Understanding and utilizing these zones effectively can be a game-changer for productivity, wellness, and overall fulfillment. I just recently began to organize my days this way, and it has been interesting to say the least! And hey, one way of organizing your day that's different might work completely fine! There are so many ways to be right! If you got it locked down, maybe this is an opportunity to learn! If you are struggling to fit it all in, then now is definitely the time to learn! Let’s break it down.
Zone 1. Green Zone: YOUR time.
This is where the magic happens. The Green Zone is your prime time for deep work, creativity, and strategic thinking. For most people, it falls in the morning. I wanna go a step further and really emphasize something that Mel says. This is the moment between the second you open your eyes, and when you check your text/email/news. This time is YOURS. This might be the time you prioritize self-care. Could be your movement time, your coffee/breakfast, of maybe you journal here. This zone could also extend over into your workday, but I'm not sure how productive we really are once we start to bombard ourselves with the needs of others!
How to Optimize It:
Do something for yourself. This could be savoring, breathing, moving, maybe even a few extra moments in bed. Make this time yours, don't let the internet take it from you!
Block out distractions—turn off notifications, put your phone on silent, and create a focused work environment.
Fuel your brain with a nutrient-dense breakfast (think protein, healthy fats, and fiber to keep you going).
Zone 1 is precious. Protect it like your life depends on it—because in many ways, your success does.
Zone 2. Yellow Zone, Work Mode—It’s What You’re Trading for Money
This is when you are actively working—whenever your workday starts. You can't get mad at this zone because this is the time you're exchanging for income. Your sharp focus from the Zone 1 may start to fade, but you're still capable of getting things done. This is the perfect time for tasks that require effort but not peak cognitive function—think responding to emails, scheduling meetings, or planning projects.
How to Optimize It:
Batch similar tasks together to maintain momentum.
Schedule meetings, calls, or brainstorming sessions that require collaboration rather than deep individual focus.
Keep moving! A quick stretch, a walk, or even a change of environment can help sustain energy levels.
Zone 3. The Red Zone: Low Energy, High Irritability
This is the post-lunch slump, the mid-afternoon crash, the “why do I feel so tired right now?” zone. Your brain is foggy, energy is lagging, and motivation is at an all-time low.
How to Navigate It:
Avoid making big decisions or tackling important work.
Take a movement break—a quick walk, a yoga flow (hot power yoga, anyone?), or some deep breaths can do wonders.
Hydrate and grab a smart snack (think nuts, fruit, or a protein-rich option) instead of reaching for caffeine or sugar, which can lead to another crash later.
Zone 4. The Dead Zone: Physically and Mentally Drained
By the time evening rolls around, your energy is shot. This may not the time to push through and force productivity, unless of course, you're a night-owl. Otherwise, it’s time to unwind and recharge.
How to Navigate It:
Disconnect from screens an hour before bed—blue light disrupts sleep quality.
Create a wind-down routine: reading, journaling, stretching, or meditation can help signal to your body that it’s time to rest.
Get quality sleep—your future self will thank you.
Zone 1+. The Dream Zone: Creativity and Big-Picture Thinking
Some of the best ideas come when you’re not actively working. Ever had an aha moment in the shower? That’s the Dream Zone at play. For some, it happens during a morning run; for others, it’s late at night when the world is quiet. The key? Make space for these moments.
How to Tap Into It:
Keep a notebook or voice memo app handy to capture ideas as they come.
Give your brain “white space” by unplugging from constant stimulation. I.E. no music on the car ride home, letting yourself do household tasks without listening to anything, etc.
Embrace boredom—yes, really. Some of your most creative breakthroughs come when your mind isn’t actively distracted by social media, emails, or endless to-do lists.
Putting It All Together: Your Game Plan for Success
Identify Your Green Zone and schedule your highest-priority work, or hardest habits during this time.
Batch tasks in the Yellow Zone to keep productivity flowing.
Respect the Red Zone and use it for movement, simple tasks, or a strategic break.
Prioritize rest in the Dead Zone—your body needs it.
Make space for the Dream Zone and let creativity come naturally.
Success isn’t about grinding harder—it’s about working smarter. When you align your tasks with your energy levels, you don’t just get more done—you feel better doing it. So, what’s one shift you can make today to maximize your time and set yourself up for success?
Let’s hear it! Drop a comment, send a DM, or share your biggest takeaway from this post.
Let’s keep growing together.
Yours from the Green Zone,
Josie
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