Mike, I do a general time block with something like “marketing” in my calendar several times a week and then go through and type in what the specific task will be such as phone calls, blog article, enewsletter, etc. I’m more a “to do list” person when it comes to what I want to accomplish in a day and then I put it into the calendar that day so I accomplish it.

Jamei, I know what you mean about toxic people. Years ago, I found it helpful to disassociate from all the negative people in my life. I started with the people in my business community and general network, and then my distant friends, and finally removed anyone close to me who was negative. I didn’t go through a formal “break up” with each person. I just chose to invest my time only with those who were optimistic, encouraging, like-minded, etc. I simply filled my schedule with people and activities I truly enjoyed, until there wasn’t time for anyone else. While one may worry that this behavior can be isolating and you’ll have few friends and contacts, I can assure you that my network is bigger than it has ever been. I know that you attract who you are, and I’m happy there are so many happy, uplifting, people out there. I don’t miss the negative ones at all. So I encourage you to keep purging the toxic people from your life. You’ll have more time and energy for good things and you won’t be drained by the negative folks.

Great advice.