The Time Suck
Where are you wasting time and being less productive?
In my most recent Mastermind group, we have discussed the appropriate use of our time, or rather the purposeful use of our time. Making our time more productive and more geared to our goals is an ongoing struggle for many. It is easy to lose sight of the path we are on. A simple pause may cause us to become less productive. I would be the first to admit that I struggle to remain engaged in various tasks or goals I am working on. Sometimes I want to watch a show or scroll on my phone. However, these activities quickly suck our valuable time we should be using to work on our personal development. What time sucks are you dealing with?
We all have busy lives, where we must be a productive member of society, and still allow ourselves to chase those dreams of ours. Several things work against us, usually because we allow them to. For example, we may watch too much tv, or scrolling through our phones, and even engaging in resources we assume will help us grow, such as podcasts, or even books. Did I just say that? Yes, I just painted podcasts and books negatively, my bad. The question we should ask is whether these are the right things that will bring purpose and meaning to our lives, right now? It is immensely powerful to question whether we are engaging in material that is benefiting us and the goals we strive for. It is ok to survey what materials we consume and make sure we are on the right path. That is a powerful personal development and growth point!!!!
Ever have someone else’s crisis or emergency effect your day and your attitude? One of the most annoying time wasters are other people. This is why setting boundaries is so important. We must value people, work with them, and be compassionate to their needs. As decent human beings, this is non-negotiable. However, we do not want to be taken advantage of or sacrifice our sanity either. When we set boundaries, we will not fall victim to work, or deadlines imposed by others. We can stay on our path and keep our mindset clear of distractions. This allows us the ability to clearly work on our dreams and aspirations.
Whether it is an issue of our doing, or someone else’s behavior that is causing our time to be wasted, we have the power to overcome it all. Find like-minded people who hold you accountable to your goals and dreams. Set a timer that will remind you to go and work on your craft, or to remind you, it is time for a break. Review the content you consume, making sure it is geared to your goals and dreams, and it is not a distraction. I am inspired by John Maxwell, who has his Rule of five. The five things he does every day to reflect his dream. Find the process that works for your lifestyle and brings you the greatest benefits to your personal growth and development.
What are you allowing to suck away your meaningful time?
How are you allowing others to waste your valuable time?
What steps will you implement to make better use of your time?
We must all decide what time commitments work for us, and identify what we value, and what is getting in the way of those values. There is only so much time in the day; we still must work, eat, and sleep. Making our time more meaningful is a difficult road to travel, at times. I have faith you can find what works for you this week. Best of luck to you all, eliminating your time suck patterns.
Steve Bucks~ Personal Development and Growth Coaching
~Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member~
Interested in having a deeper conversation or a personal coaching session?
Email me at, admin@stevebuckscoaching.com