Do you work extra hard because you need to "make time" to fulfill your family commitments and other obligations? Do you fit in a few more hours of work in the evening, or even pull an occasional all-nighter when a deadline looms? And do you feel especially stressed because there's never enough time, no matter how hard you work?
It's not the amount of time that matters, though, when it comes to time management, but our perception of it. And our perception of time depends on our attitude. Think about this. We can all remember occasions when time seemed to pass excruciatingly slowly, or weeks that seemed to whiz by. Time is fixed, but our perception of it isn't.
Our basic biology is also fixed. Most people need a period of time each day to recharge themselves. They need time to reflect, to enjoy, to energize, or to simply pause - to do something that gives them respite or pleasure so they can deal with the stresses of the day.
So think about you and take time for yourself. What is it that you like or need to do that will refresh you and allow you to return to the fray with a clearer head and more energy? Is it a daily jog? A walk with the dog? Time spent playing with your children? Sitting and sipping herbal tea? A short nap?
Whatever it is, schedule it into your day, just as you would any business-related activity. Think of it your time to yourself as a meeting and stick to it just as religiously as you would if it was a meeting with a client. That daily half hour or hour that you schedule for taking time for yourself you will more than repay the time invested. It will make you better able to cope with stress, more productive in your work, and better tempered.
Who's the most important person in your business? You are. Keeping yourself healthy by scheduling time for yourself each day is a great business investment - and fun, once you get used to it!
