Every Minute of Your Time is an Investment
You can always make more money but you can never make more time.
Each minute you have needs to be used, to be valued, to be invested.
If you are writing an email with advice, could that email be turned into a blog post?
I’m not saying don’t ever watch TV or hang out with friends, because those also have value. Let me explain.
Like eating a balanced meal, our energy and emotions also need to be balanced. But, everything in moderation.
Instead of watching 3 hours of TV, cut it back to a half hour. Keep it focused on having value – i.e. you’re watching that show in order to relax or to laugh or exercise your brain. If you’re watching a show because it creates drama (Jerry Springer style) do you really need it? Garbage in garbage out. Know why you’re doing it and make it be an investment in yourself.
What are the critical areas in which we need nurturing?
- Sleep. Don’t be that useless hero who tries to go days without sleep. Sleep gives us energy. Take what your body needs, don’t cheat.
- Food. Stay away from the junk. Take the time to eat slowly and not in a rush. Your body will thank you.
- Friends. Invite the friends and association into your life that will nourish your soul.
- Family. Every family, including the Cleaver’s, have hard times. But (in most cases) your family will be that ultimate grounding. Devote time to nourishing these roots (there is a reason they’re called roots!).
- Mental Stimulation. Contact and conversation with friends, coworkers, etc. or a trip to the museum.
- Relaxation. Spa, climbing, yoga, hot shower, that half hour of your favorite show, journaling, Sunday brunch … pick a vice, just keep it in check.
- Exercise. Healthy body, healthy mind. Even 1 walk per day will help get your energy flowing. Don’t be sedentary. Make the time.
These all feed into our emotional and physical health. But for the rest of your seconds, minutes, hours – all of it should count. Create, learn, grow. Don’t waste.
Taking a road trip, could you also be listening to an educational program, talking to a business partner, enjoying a much needed chat with a friend? … whatever it is, figure out your checks and balances, and make every second of your time a personal investment.