Parkinson’s Law, proposed by Cyril Parkinson in a 1955 humorous essay for The Economist, states: “Work expands so as to fill the time available for its completion.” While the author might have been using humor to make a point, his observation underscores the basic truth that we tend to find ways to fill up our free time with more work. Charles Hummel touched on the same issue in his small book Tyranny of the Urgent, which deals with our problem of over commitment. Making the right decisions and keeping yourself from being spread to thin takes some work, but it’s worth it in the long run. Here are some strategies to remember:
Practice the Art of Refusal
This is tough one, especially for young people or recent college graduates who are so desperate to get their careers going that they’ll take any offer of work, part-time or full-time, that they get. But saying “yes” to every offer is the first step toward being over-committed. Put simply, you can’t do everything, and it’s useless to try. If someone wants you to take on a job for them, or do them a favor, don’t accept out of hand. Instead, take an honest look at your schedule and think about whether you really want to do it. It’s fine to turn things down, especially if it would help you keep your life under control.
Know What You Can and Can’t Do
This is related to the first point, but just as important. So often in our lives we take on extra tasks not because they suit us but because we want them, or because we think we’re supposed to want them. And that’s dangerous. If you find yourself presented with an opportunity that would make you much busier and that isn’t even related to your strengths, it might be a good idea to refuse it. Only commit yourself to the things you can and want to do.
Pay Yourself First
A common savings tip is to pay yourself first by putting the top 10% of your take-home pay into a savings account to make sure you’ve got some money left over for a rainy day. The same thing applies to the strategy of time management. Set aside time every day and every week that’s yours alone, and that can’t be given away to extra work or responsibilities. Maybe it’s an hour after dinner to read; maybe it’s a Saturday afternoon to work in your yard. Whatever it is, set it up and don’t violate it for anyone unless it’s an extreme emergency. Having solid boundaries for your personal time is the best way to begin getting your various commitments under control, and knowing you’ve got a daily respite will help you get through the rest of your work.
Remember, being over-committed begins and ends with you. Make the right decisions, and you’ll be able to get your life under control.
This guest post was contributed by Katheryn Rivas, who writes on the topics of accredited online universities. She also welcomes your comments or feedback at her email: katherynrivas87@gmail.com.
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Some great advice here Katheryn. Setting boundaries and not being afraid to say no is really important to owning our time.
Love the title the most: Take time to make time.
.-= Moon Hussain´s last blog ..Check-Off Friday (2): Where I Am With My Goals (And Where The Hell Are You With Yours?!) =-.
I enjoyed this post. I have found that these tips that Katheryn presents here, over a long time yield too more production.
Katheryn,
I agree with Moon, your choice of title is great. Three timely reminders about making time for ourselves in our daily routine. Not an easy thing to do in some case, however this is no excuse for not doing! Thank you for sharing this post.
Regards
Paul
.-= Paul´s last blog ..Rocky Road =-.
I could definitely work on practicing the art of refusal. Whenever a new project comes my way I find it difficult to say ‘no’ as I think of the opportunities that it may potentially lead to. But then I find myself working on too many projects and often getting worn out of course. Thanks Katheryn for reminding me to evaluate each decision a little more closely first!
.-= Earl´s last blog ..The Joy of Booking a Flight =-.
Hi Katheryn, I loved the messages in this post and especially liked ‘Practise the art of refusal’ as this is a problem I see a lot of people having. You’re right about it being an ‘art’ as well, as there are ways to turn someone down without offending them or making yourself feel guilty.
.-= Steven Aitchison´s last blog ..Using EFT to Change Your Life – Video =-.
Taking time to make time is an excellent idea. I always think of yoga and meditation and time for myself as creating time rather than taking time.
Also on the idea of saying No, it is not just hard for new grads, it’s hard for all of us to decline politely, fearing rejection for the next time, misunderstanding, hurting of feelings or other reasons. I am always practicing saying no with poise and with sincerity. It’s not easy! Thanks for the ideas here!
Twitter: mightyrasing
March 9, 2010 at 3:10 am
Hi Katheryn, it’s sometimes difficult to refuse people, especially those who are close to you. Refusing is indeed an art so that the people asking for favor or help do not get offended.
.-= Mighty´s last blog ..Corazon Aquino Biography: Political Leadership for the Filipino People =-.
yes i agree, saying no is not just important in saving time but its a very important skill that everyone should learn, thanks for pointing that out