What is the most valuable asset we could ever possess? The answer proposed by an increasing drumbeat of television ads is “precious metals”…after all, as we are continuously reminded by such ads, these are volatile times. And as if that wasn’t enough, the litany of similar messages with a variety of “urgent” issues and postulated answers continues daily regarding that which we should consider “most valuable.”
Yet maybe the most obvious answer is ticking away as we read: time.
Time is our most valuable asset. We cannot create more of it; once gone, it cannot be recaptured; there is a limit to the total available to us…each day; each year. There is a finite maximum to the totality of our life-span. After which, for this life, time is up.
Whether in reality or, at al points theoretically, we can make more money. But not more time. Therefore, it is incumbent on us to think in terms of maximizing the time we do have…redeeming it for that which will be most productive, and to spend it with those who are most important to us.
With these convictions in mind, here are several thoughts regarding maximizing our time:
- Do a two-week audit: take two blank weekly calendars and note your activities in 30 minute increments. At the end of the two weeks, study it. Ask questions about priorities, efficiencies, wasted steps.
- Read a book on time-management, implement 3 ideas from it in the first week. Reread the book. Implement 3 more. Need a place to start? Try “The Time Trap,” by Alec Mackenzie.
- Make check lists for repeated tasks (example: I created “packing lists” for various types of travel, i.e. by myself, with my family, overnight only, international travel, etc.). I can print out a saved list and pack in 15 minutes and not forget a thing.
- Make a daily “to-do” list, once written, categorize each item as an “A,” “B,” or “C.” The “A’s” are most important, “B” is should get it done, “C” is if I have time. Cross out everything but the “A’s” and do them.
- Ask the busiest person you know what they do to manage their time. Pick a couple ideas that suit your personality and try them. Adjust as needed.
OK, you get the idea. It is my view that time is our most valuable asset. So I am going to not waste more of your time. Or mine. Besides, I need to pack. No problem. I will have that done in 15 minutes. Or less.
What time management tips work for you?