You Have Enough Time

Mature leaders recognize that being “too busy” is a failure to prioritize. Why? Because you have enough time to accomplish great things.

Mature leaders recognize that being “too busy” is a failure to prioritize. Share on X

80/20 analysis shows that 80% of the value comes from 20% of the time and effort. But 80/20 is iterative! 64% of the value comes from just 4% of your time and effort. 4% is one hour out of 25, or roughly an hour a day.

Once you see this truth, the question becomes how to convert more hours into highest payoff activities. Converting just one more hour into high-value activity could double your output. 

The real problem is what I name the Time Thief – squandered time. Personifying the Time Thief helps me defeat his tactics.

For many of us, the Time Thief whispers and cajoles us into passive consumption – mindless TV and social media, noise instead of useful silence. “There’s always tomorrow,” the Thief mutters. “You deserve to indulge yourself.” Our greatest joy comes from creating and contributing, not mindless consumption. Our greatest joys come from active participation, rather than passive absorption. Our greatest regrets at the end of our life will often be the victories of the Time Thief.

Consistently beating the Time Thief (you will always be fighting him) requires understanding three things:

• Your Big Why – what’s your purpose?
• Your Vector – the direction even when there is no map.
• Your Goals – the specific milestones and objectives along the vector.

Once you have clarity on these things, find clear ideas about how to spend your abundant time wisely. Note that proper sleep, exercise, and recreation (“re-creation”) are high value uses for your time, because they maximize your potential for your best work.

Remind yourself frequently: I have enough time.