avatarCaroline de Braganza

Summary

The author reflects on the potential impact of a 25-hour day on productivity and leisure, recalling Parkinson's Law, and concludes they would use the extra hour to engage more with other writers' work.

Abstract

The text presents a personal contemplation on the concept of managing an additional hour in a 25-hour day. The author reminisces about corporate time management strategies, particularly Parkinson's Law, which suggests that tasks expand to fill the available time. They ponder whether this principle could also apply to personal activities like yoga and meditation, questioning if the extra hour should be allocated to work or pleasure. Ultimately, the author decides that they would dedicate the additional time to reading and responding to other writers, an activity they feel they currently neglect.

Opinions

  • The author is uncertain about the direct correlation between an extra hour and increased productivity.
  • They consider the possibility of using the extra time for both work and leisure, suggesting a flexible approach to time management.
  • The author acknowledges the potential of tasks to expand into the time allotted for them, as per Parkinson's Law.
  • There is an indication of a desire to balance productivity with personal enjoyment and self-improvement activities.
  • The author expresses a specific interest in devoting more time to engaging with the work of other writers, implying a value placed on community and intellectual exchange.

How would I manage a 25-hour day? I’m not sure if the extra hour would generate more power to get things done. Could I fit something else into the extra time slot — or not? Would I give it a shot? And do what?

Takes me back to my corporate days learning about time management. Good old Parkinson’s Law states that work expands to fill the time available for its completion.

Or can I apply the same principle to the pleasure of leisure? Does yoga expand to fill the time available to complete my asanas? Should I meditate for an hour instead of twenty minutes?

Too many questions whirling in my mind.

Deep breath.

I know what I’d do with an extra hour! Spend it reading and responding to other writers because I don’t do enough of that.

Short Form
Life Lessons
Time Management
Writing
Music
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