Knowing common myths about time will help you spend it wisely. Check yourself: these eight misconceptions provoke you to waste valuable resources.
Misconception #1: More time means better results
Surely, at least once in your life, you have done something at the very last minute. When a task has too much time, we tend to put it off until it is too late. In theory, the more time, the more work you can do. But will you be equally productive for all 48 hours if you have to work for two days without stopping? Frankly, even an eight-hour workday does not guarantee high efficiency. The paradox of time is that freedom is given by restrictions. Do “quick” things without delay – and you will soon feel better. When planning large-scale projects, be sure to break them into parts and set a deadline for each.
Misconception #2: Time is immaterial
Perhaps people would value time more if they could touch it or put it in their wallet. And yet, it can be measured, although it cannot be stopped. It is a tangible and valuable resource, the value of which is determined not only by quantity but also by quality. It is obvious that time spent on starting your own business, learning skills, maintaining health, spending time with loved ones is much more valuable than time spent scrolling social media and doing minor chores.
Misconception #3: Time management is needed to get more done
Although time management helps you accomplish many tasks in a short period of time, it is more likely to help you maintain a balance between your areas of interest. It is also important to give yourself enough time to rest. Trying to do more without regard for your physical condition will lead to burnout and a drop in productivity. If you are constantly busy, plan your weekends first, not your tasks. You must admit, it is better to start a task with renewed energy than to pull the strap with all your strength.
Misconception #4: All time is equal
Some moments continue to fill you years later, while others are completely unremarkable. The truth is that each person is capable of creating memories on their own. For example, the smallest trip will have a greater impact on you than a weekend on the couch. Plus, there is the concept of timing. It is impossible to spend more time with your children when they are older. It is difficult to make a career if there is a gap of 20 years of experience between you and your peers. In the language of folk wisdom, it is never too late, but still, a spoon is precious at dinner!
Misconception #5: When you work for hire, you can’t control your time.
Sometimes it may seem that the boundaries of a work schedule like “from 8 to 18” sound like a death sentence. After all, there is very little free time left, which is usually completely occupied with worries and troubles. Many people believe that planning is only available to managers, but this is not true. Firstly, the results of work life directly affect the quality of personal life. For example, if your work is effective, your salary will increase and you will be able to use cleaning services, and you will spend the freed up hours in a more pleasant way. Secondly, you can optimize your working time – clarify the range of your responsibilities so as not to take on unnecessary things, make suggestions for optimizing the work process, use software that will simplify the work, and, ultimately, ask for help when necessary.
Myth #6: Productive people get everything done.
Of course, doing tasks yourself gives you more control over the outcome and, importantly, the quality of the work. However, the fear of failures and mistakes can paralyze progress when you take on too much. When you cope with a task yourself, the feeling of satisfaction and pride in the result can be a pleasant bonus. However, if you have mastered the art of delegation, and the result without your participation turned out to be proportionate, this is no less your merit, only in a different role – a manager. Delegating tasks to other people will help you save time and focus on the most important tasks. In addition, this is an effective method of using the strengths and skills of others.
Misconception #5: When you work for hire, you can’t control your time.
Sometimes it may seem that the boundaries of a work schedule like “from 8 to 18” sound like a death sentence. After all, there is very little free time left, which is usually completely occupied with worries and troubles. Many people believe that planning is only available to managers, but this is not true. Firstly, the results of work life directly affect the quality of personal life. For example, if your work is effective, your salary will increase and you will be able to use cleaning services, and you will spend the freed up hours in a more pleasant way. Secondly, you can optimize your working time – clarify the range of your responsibilities so as not to take on unnecessary things, make suggestions for optimizing the work process, use software that will simplify the work, and, ultimately, ask for help when necessary.
Myth #6: Productive people get everything done.
Of course, doing tasks yourself gives you more control over the outcome and, importantly, the quality of the work. However, the fear of failures and mistakes can paralyze progress when you take on too much. When you cope with a task yourself, the feeling of satisfaction and pride in the result can be a pleasant bonus. However, if you have mastered the art of delegation, and the result without your participation turned out to be proportionate, this is no less your merit, only in a different role – a manager. Delegating tasks to other people will help you save time and focus on the most important tasks. In addition, this is an effective method of using the strengths and skills of others