We have a tendency to waste a lot of time, especially at this time of year. Below are ten time wasters that can make it harder to get all those things on your list done (you do have a list, don’t you?).
You don’t have to be busy all the time. Nor do you want to be.
Life is precious and so is time. It’s important to enjoy both.
If you recognize where and when you are wasting time you can learn to be more productive. In the long run that will give you more time to do the things you really enjoy.
Ten Time Wasters
1. Things
It’s not what we have that makes us happy. It’s what we enjoy that makes us happy. Things take a lot of time to put away, clean, clean around, or fix when they break. Don’t waste your time on those things that aren’t useful or bring you joy.
2. Not Saying No
Never make a yes decision on the spur of the moment. Say, “I’ll have to think about it and get back to you.” This puts you in control of whether you have time to do something for others or not.
3. Unmade Decisions
Narrow your choices to help solve a problem. It will take less time if you have to decide between A and B instead of A, B, C, or D. You’ll waste even more time if you procrastinate at making any decision at all.
4. Not Interrupting
Learn to interrupt without being rude. Just say “excuse me, but I really must go.” Value your time. How many people do you know that their time is more important than yours? Don’t let others control your time.
5. Television
Choose carefully what you watch. Give thought to how you might spend the time in a more rewarding or productive way. If you go through a pile of paper clutter, wrap gifts, or address cards, especially during the commercials, then the time becomes productive. Playing board games or other activities with your family can be more rewarding.
6. Lack of Planning
Better and more realistic planning saves time and aggravation. Written plans make it easier to stay on track.
7. Clutter
Unlike just having too many things you may not love (see number 1.) clutter is when your things don’t have a home and end up in piles around the house. That causes you to waste a lot of time digging through the piles to find what you want or need. Many times clutter consist of things that should be thrown away or given away.
8. Ignoring Maintenance
Fix things now when the problem is small. It’s not going to fix itself. Many times if you catch a problem early and fix it you’ll spend less money and time.
9. Idle Waiting
Carry a pen, stamps, address book, greeting cards, and paper for lists or notes. While waiting in the carpool line or at a doctor’s office you can write out a shopping list, make out tomorrow’s schedule, or address greeting cards. There are lots of zippered notebooks where you can create a portable desk to take with you when you know there will be some idle waiting time. If you have a smart phone or tablet learn to use it for notes and lists.
10. Agonizing About the Future
Plan for the future but be flexible. Enjoy each day and always look for the silver lining. It’s there for you to find.
What ways do you find yourself wasting time?
To a lighter load along the way.
Janice