avatarMatthew Royse

Summary

The article emphasizes the importance of aligning one's time with personal values to ensure a balanced and fulfilling life.

Abstract

The article suggests that achieving balance in life requires a conscious effort to allocate time according to personal values. It recommends three strategies to ensure time is spent on what matters most: first, comparing the ideal time spent on activities against reality; second, reflecting on and reaffirming personal values to guide time investment; and third, establishing a personal board of advisers to provide feedback and support. The global pandemic is highlighted as an opportune moment for such self-reflection and realignment of priorities.

Opinions

  • The author believes that a balanced life is attainable by aligning daily activities with personal values.
  • It is noted that very few people are actually spending their time in a way that matches their ideal lifestyle.
  • The article quotes Stephen R. Covey, emphasizing the concept of investing rather than spending time.
  • Self-reflection is considered crucial in determining what one truly values, distinguishing values from mere preferences.
  • The author advocates for the creation of a personal board of advisers, a diverse group of individuals who can offer honest feedback and help maintain focus on what really matters.
  • The article suggests that the global pandemic offers a chance for introspection and the reevaluation of how we spend our time.
  • It is implied that writing down activities and reflecting on them should be done during positive mood states for a more constructive experience.
  • The article concludes with a thought-provoking question and a quote from Jonathan Estrin, reinforcing the idea that our use of time is a reflection of who we are.

Are You Spending Time on What Really Matters to You?

Your time should align with your values.

Photo by Djim Loic on Unsplash

Are you trying to achieve more balance in your life? Do you want to write more often? Are you giving every part of your life an equal amount of time?

It’s tough to juggle your career, family, friends, health, and fun.

The global pandemic has provided us with a great time for self-reflection. It’s an excellent time to ask yourself.

Am I spending time on what really matters?

“The key is in not spending time, but in investing it.“

— Stephen R. Covey, an American educator, author, businessman, and keynote speaker

If not, let’s discuss three simple ways you can make sure you are spending time on what really matters to you.

1. Write down what you think you do vs. what you really do

Decide how much of your time you would ideally like to devote to each of your daily activities. Next, figure out how much time you actually are devoting to the activities. Calculate the difference.

Do this exercise when you are in a good mood such as after an exercise high so it’s a pleasant experience. Very few people match what they want to do compared to what they are doing now.

2. Self reflect and re-examine your values

The way you spend your time should match your personal values. How do you decide what those values are?

Engage in some self-reflection. Ask yourself:

  • What do I care about?
  • What’s my purpose?
  • What really matters?

Do this while keeping in mind that a value is not a preference. A value is something you are not willing to compromise or negotiate.

3. Establish your personal board of advisers

Spending time on what really matters requires you to find a solid sounding board. This group of people will tell you how you are doing. Like a diverse portfolio of investments, it’s important to have a diversified network when you select members to join your personal advisory board.

These members should include strong ties such as family and friends, and weak ties such as former colleagues or fellow writers in a writer’s group. Find people with values you agree with, people you admire, and people who can give you an honest appraisal of where you can improve.

Bringing it all together

There are 720 hours in an average month. Are you spending that time on what really matters?

“The way we spend our time defines who we are.”

— Jonathan Estrin, a TV producer, writer, and director

Self Improvement
Personal Development
Writing
Time
Productivity
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