Why Energy Based Planning Beats Time Blocking for Modern Productivity
Why Energy Based Planning Beats Time Blocking for Modern Productivity
Jun 5, 2025
Recently, time blocking has been the go-to strategy for productivity gurus. But in today’s always-on world, the assumption that every hour is created equal just doesn’t hold up. Enter energy-based planning: a method that prioritizes your natural ebbs and flows to help you get more done without burning out!
What Is Energy-Based Planning?
Unlike traditional calendars that allocate tasks based purely on availability, energy-based planning considers your internal capacity to focus, create, or recharge. Instead of just asking "What do I have time for?" you also ask, "What do I have energy for?"
Apps like Lifestack.ai are pioneering this approach by using wearable data (from Oura Rings or Apple Watch) to recommend what you should work on right now based on how you feel physically and mentally. This isn't just time management; it's a smarter way to manage your life.
Why Energy Matters More Than Time
Time is fixed but energy isn't. That’s why most of us hit a mid-afternoon slump even if our calendar says "free to focus."
Studies show that aligning tasks with peak energy levels improves performance and satisfaction. Clockwise even cites energy-focused apps as among the best for sustainable productivity.
Not Just Another Tracker
Tools like the Notion energy tracker have gained traction, but they rely on manual input. Lifestack goes a step further by syncing with your wearables to automatically detect and predict your energy trends and make real-time suggestions.
This creates an active guidance experience. Think of it as a personal health assistant app that keeps your todo list aligned with your energy.
Benefits of Energy Scheduling
More meaningful deep work during focus peaks Fewer wasted hours pushing through fatigue Better health and recovery through scheduled rest
Users have noted how their Oura Ring helped them better understand when not to push themselves. This Reddit post describes one person’s experience shifting their routine to match recovery readiness which is exactly the kind of insight Lifestack builds on.
Who Should Use Energy-Based Planning?
While originally embraced by those with neurodivergent needs, energy-based scheduling is gaining traction among:
Startup founders with fluctuating workloads
Remote workers juggling asynchronous time zones
Creatives who depend on deep focus
Health conscious professionals optimizing both output and recovery
Finally
If your current productivity method leaves you drained or disorganized, it might be time to try something smarter. Energy-based planning helps you listen to your body, work when you're most capable, and rest when you need it all while still hitting your goals.
Recently, time blocking has been the go-to strategy for productivity gurus. But in today’s always-on world, the assumption that every hour is created equal just doesn’t hold up. Enter energy-based planning: a method that prioritizes your natural ebbs and flows to help you get more done without burning out!
What Is Energy-Based Planning?
Unlike traditional calendars that allocate tasks based purely on availability, energy-based planning considers your internal capacity to focus, create, or recharge. Instead of just asking "What do I have time for?" you also ask, "What do I have energy for?"
Apps like Lifestack.ai are pioneering this approach by using wearable data (from Oura Rings or Apple Watch) to recommend what you should work on right now based on how you feel physically and mentally. This isn't just time management; it's a smarter way to manage your life.
Why Energy Matters More Than Time
Time is fixed but energy isn't. That’s why most of us hit a mid-afternoon slump even if our calendar says "free to focus."
Studies show that aligning tasks with peak energy levels improves performance and satisfaction. Clockwise even cites energy-focused apps as among the best for sustainable productivity.
Not Just Another Tracker
Tools like the Notion energy tracker have gained traction, but they rely on manual input. Lifestack goes a step further by syncing with your wearables to automatically detect and predict your energy trends and make real-time suggestions.
This creates an active guidance experience. Think of it as a personal health assistant app that keeps your todo list aligned with your energy.
Benefits of Energy Scheduling
More meaningful deep work during focus peaks Fewer wasted hours pushing through fatigue Better health and recovery through scheduled rest
Users have noted how their Oura Ring helped them better understand when not to push themselves. This Reddit post describes one person’s experience shifting their routine to match recovery readiness which is exactly the kind of insight Lifestack builds on.
Who Should Use Energy-Based Planning?
While originally embraced by those with neurodivergent needs, energy-based scheduling is gaining traction among:
Startup founders with fluctuating workloads
Remote workers juggling asynchronous time zones
Creatives who depend on deep focus
Health conscious professionals optimizing both output and recovery
Finally
If your current productivity method leaves you drained or disorganized, it might be time to try something smarter. Energy-based planning helps you listen to your body, work when you're most capable, and rest when you need it all while still hitting your goals.
Web App
Easily schedule tasks on your calendar by dragging and dropping from your favorite todo lists.
Chrome Extension
Track your energy levels directly on your web calendar. Compatible with Outlook and Google Calendar.
Mobile App
Check your energy and schedule on the go. Access advanced health and productivity metrics.
