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What are some myths of Time Management?

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Posted by Your Guide on October 31, 2005 11:11 AM

Time management is a familiar concept, but it is easy to make a formula out of time management and ignore the myths and subtle difficulties of time management. Here are a few time management myths:


  • Once you discipline yourself, time management is easy. Time management may be satisfying, but it is not easy. Making priorities means saying no to some things, including things that have value; they simply do not have as much value as other things. In addition, self-discipline is not a one-time decision; throughout your life, you will continually need to discipline yourself to practice good time management skills.
  • Time management is the most important thing I do: Few people would say this statement, but many people act it out with their lives. Every minute is scheduled with tasks, and lost time results in incredible guilt. Guard against the idol of time management by reminding yourself what is truly important in life. (Hint: it’s not making sure that all your emails are sent out on time.) Otherwise, you will turn into the kind of person Will Rogers described in saying, “Half our life is spent trying to find something to do with the time we have rushed through life trying to save.”
  • Everything has to fit into my schedule and have a grand purpose: Things happen. Emergencies come up. Don’t ignore the real world and the real needs of people around you, and learn what should and should not be reasons to bend your schedule. In addition, save some time for yourself. Take some personal time for personal reflection and growth.
  • If I just organized my time better, I would be able to get everything done. It’s possible that time management will enable you to complete all your tasks, but chances are you are trying to do more than is possible. Time management is not about completing everything; it is a matter of making the most of your time—of prioritizing and focusing on those issues.

John Kennedy said,
We must use time as a tool, not as a crutch.
Be careful not to depend on time management to solve all your problems, and do not ignore the rest of life in favor of your schedule. That said, use time as a tool—learn to manage it well and to make the most of it.



Next Page: How can I eliminate procrastination?

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