What is the one resource we ALL have the same amount of and once gone (often squandered) can never be recouped? Time!
“Don’t let the fear of the time it will take to accomplish something stand in the way of your doing it. The time will pass anyway; we might just as well put that passing time to the best possible use.” ~ Earl Nightingale
Consider the fact that EVERY human being on this planet has been given 24 hours EACH AND EVERY DAY! How we spend (or invest) that time determines our future. Some invest their time to achieve greatly; we each can do the same to fulfill our own goals and dreams!
There are obviously daily requirements which totally occupy our mind when we cannot otherwise invest our time such as: sleep (~7 hours), work (~8-10 hours, excluding commute). So far, we are at roughly 15-17 hours consumed. This leaves 7-9 hours each weekday (not counting the extra time on weekends) for other activities (personal hygiene, eating, exercise, commuting, household chores and just plain “downtime” after these other activities are complete) when we CAN engage our mind on learning (for OUR future).
How can we invest our time on learning during these available times? By reading positive and constructive books and/or listening to similar audio programs.
A simple approach to creating the discipline of reading is to devote (at least) 15-30 minutes per day just before retiring each night and/or upon awakening. Night is best for me…
And, we often fail to realize the many opportunities we have to listen to audio programs. The most consistent time to do so is during our daily commute (to work or school). Let’s say our commute is 30 minutes each way to/from work. By listening to an audio program during our commute we are spending (at least) an hour per day “in class” (more if/when there is a traffic jam, or our commute is longer). So, load up your iPod/iPhone with audio programs (they support more than music 🙂 ), carry your earbuds where-ever you go and listen to something that will advance your future; while driving, working out or…You get the picture.
You may be asking: “What about time with family?” A very good question! My response: I spend TONS of time with my family. In fact, this afternoon I’ll be “on the slopes” skiing with my son. And, we can do this (invest in learning) together. For example, during travel time to/from our adventures we’ll often listen to an audio program. Perhaps today’s will be “As A Man Thinketh” – click here to stream or download for free!
The best resource I can recommend on the topic of Making Best Use of Time (and other relevant habits) is “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.” It is available as a book or audio program, and there is an edition for Teens!
Relevant quotes:
“Self-discipline is a form of freedom. Freedom from laziness and lethargy, freedom from the expectations and demands of others, freedom from weakness and fear–and doubt.” ~ H.A. Dorfman
“If we don’t discipline ourselves the world will do it for us.” ~ William Feather
In future posts I’ll share additional strategies for Making Best Use of Time, towards achieving our goals and dreams.
Be Brave Not Safe 
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