3 Reasons Why Many People Use Their Time Unwisely

Time is a non-renewable resource. It can’t be stockpiled like money, food or other precious resources. We can’t turn back the clock. Furthermore, everyone, whether rich or poor, gets an equal share of time—24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Time is our most equitably distributed resource but some people spend it more wisely than others. Why is this? Why is it that some people let time slip through their fingers without accomplishing much?

There are many reasons why people use their time unwisely. Here are 3 key reasons to reflect on:

1. Their goals are neither clearly define nor written down 

The truth is you can’t wisely allocate your time unless you decide what you want to accomplish with your time. The problem is that too many people don’t have clearly defined written goals and therefore, they cannot prioritize their work. As a result, they often use up too much time on trivial pursuits, leaving their more important tasks undone. 

2. Inability to say “no” 

Other people are constantly making demands on our time. For instance, they want us cover their hours at work, help with a project, join a committee, be present at their parties, and so on. Obviously, we cannot do everything that everyone wants us to. However, some people just can’t say no to others’ request for their time. When this happens they end up fulfilling others’ priorities instead of their own priorities. Perhaps the most successful way to manage your time properly and avoiding wasted time is to learn to say “no”.

3. Perfectionism

High standards are admirable but some people have difficulty finishing projects because they expect them to be flawless. They dwell on minor changes and keep on making microscopic changes in their papers, projects, and proposals. As a result, they end up spinning their wheels, doing the same work over and over again.

The Bottom Line 

If you feel overwhelmed by your responsibilities at work, at school, and at home, you are struggling with time pressure. You can make you life less stressful by learning some sound time-management strategies.

To Your Success,

Gerard Ndzebir