Checking Your Priorities
“Action expresses priorities.”
Years ago, I was at a lecture of some sort and the presenter mentioned in passing something that really stuck with me on the subject of time management. I seem to recall that this came from a book that the speaker referenced, though I don’t remember that either. Some help I am! (If anyone knows the source, please let me know and I’ll update this post.) I wanted to pass the tip along in any case because I find it to be such a helpful catalyst. Do I have your attention? Ok, here it is:
Next time you have the urge to tell someone, including yourself, “I don’t have time to do that,” try saying this instead: “I’m not prioritizing that.”
If you’ve said "I don't have time for that" recently, think back back to that situation and try this out. Just sit with it for a moment. How did this sound to you? How did it feel to say that to someone, or even just consider saying it? Too truthful or harsh? Perhaps not accurate? If you don’t like the sound of it, consider what that implies. Have you been using time limitations as a rote excuse for not consciously choosing where to expend your focus? Are you missing the opportunities you care most about by filling up your time with things that don’t matter as much?
In truth, we do have a lot of control over how we spend our time, even if it seems like we don’t. Chances are, if you sat down determined to find time for something that was hugely important to you, you could move a bunch of things around or reprioritize to make space for it. It’s actually a great idea to actually do this regularly so you can remind yourself of your priorities and think about what’s eroding your focus, then come up with action steps to reduce the noise and move forward with greater precision. Your time is precious. If you don’t actively choose to direct it, you’ll never find yourself living the life you really want.
Sometimes it’s the little things that help the most. Keep your eye out for the “not enough time” refrain in your thoughts and see what happens when you try something new with it. It might just change everything.