Activity clock

Activity clock is a participatory activity that invites participants to organize their day using a visual representation of a blank clock. Participants fill the clock’s segments with activities, tasks, and breaks, either to plan an ideal day, reflect on their current routine, or design a themed day. This activity promotes time management, self-reflection, and balance in daily routines.

Preparation

1. Define the purpose:
   • Decide if the goal is:
     • To plan an ideal day.
     • To reflect on the current routine.
     • To design a focused themed day (e.g., self-care, productivity, teamwork).
2. Prepare the materials:
   • Physical format: Printed blank clocks with hourly divisions.
   • Digital format: Editable templates using tools like Canva or Google Slides.
3. Set guiding questions:
   • What activities are essential in your day?
   • How much time do you dedicate to each activity?
   • What changes would you make to improve your routine?
4. Set up the space:
   • Arrange comfortable tables or workspaces.
   • If virtual, prepare a shared board or collaborative tool.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Introduce the purpose
   • Explain the activity’s goal and how it will help reflect on time management and activity organization.
   • Present the clock templates and show a completed example.
2. Distribute blank clocks
   • Provide each participant with a physical or digital blank clock.
   • Explain that they will need to fill the clock’s segments with specific activities.
3. Filling the clock
   • Ask participants to organize their activities on the clock:
     • Options: A current day, an ideal day, or a themed day.
   • Encourage them to include time for work, rest, leisure, and self-care.
4. Review and group discussion
   • Invite participants to share their clocks with the group.
   • Facilitate a discussion using guiding questions:
     • What did you discover about your use of time?
     • What patterns or imbalances did you identify?
     • What adjustments would you make to your routine?
5. Closing and reflections
   • Summarize key insights about time management and the importance of balance.
   • Encourage participants to apply the changes or strategies identified in their daily lives.

Activity variations

• Current day vs. ideal day: Participants complete one clock with their current routine and another with their ideal day, comparing both at the end.
• Themed focus: Design a day focused on productivity, self-care, or group activities.
• Teamwork: Participants collaborate to design a “group clock” reflecting a balanced day for a shared project or activity.
• Follow-up evaluation: Reflect in a future session on how the planned changes were implemented.