Today most people seem to be doing more and enjoying it less. A lot of time is wasted on activities that aren’t productive, nor are they relaxing or enjoyable. While there are some have-to’s in every life, cutting down on time wasters will allow for more enjoyable family and leisure minutes.
Everyone should have goals for this particular time in their life. These will vary from individual to individual and change as circumstances change, i.e., kids grow up. Goals are what should determine how time is spent. Below are a few time wasters and suggestions to overcome them.
Summary
Time Wasters
Technology has come a long way, but its use can not only waste time, but it can also add to stress levels. For many, with cell phones, it is impossible to get away from work, even when relaxing at home. Learn to use technology to save time.
- Internet
- Television
- Cell and Telephones
- Overbooking
- Searching for Something
- Junk Mail
Tip on Reducing Time Wasters
Most people use the internet now, which can supply a treasure trove of information. However, it is straightforward to get sidetracked and spend endless minutes or hours surfing the web on interesting sites that seem to pop up. Many experts warn the internet can be a huge time-waster. This is true for both adults and children. Even if this qualifies as relaxation, beware and set limits.
The television is another device that can have valuable information, but most programming is not entertaining, and much of it is actually stressful. Again, be very selective in what you see and how much time is spent in front of it.
Home telephones mainly fall victim to advertising, even if you are on the Do-Not-Call List. Add the cell phone to the mix, and we often feel we can’t have a minute’s peace. Most all devices today are capable of letting you know the number or name of the person calling. If it isn’t recognizable, it will be junk and shouldn’t be answered in most cases. Devices can also set up to block numbers on repeat problems.
Don’t forget there are only 24 hours in a day. Taking on too many tasks, no matter how worthy, causes stress and results in none of them receiving the attention they should. Learn to say “No,” if schedules are already full or the request is not in line with present goals.
How much time was spent this week searching for something? Try being more organized, so everything has a place, i.e., keys, and make it easy for everyone to put things where they belong.
Junk mail has become a major waste of time in the opening, reading, and disposing of it. Register with Direct Marketing Association to reduce junk mail by up to 80%. In The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Organizing Your Life (The Penguin Group), Georgene Lockwood quoted John Lahr as saying, “Society drives people crazy with lust and calls it advertising.” Also, be sure to indicate “Do not share information” on any form you fill out, such as a warranty card (usually not necessary anyway to be covered by warranty).
Reduce Time Wasters to Lead a Fuller Life
Depending on present goals, new-found minutes could be spent with family, friends (nurture positive relationships), or just relaxing with a cup of tea and a good book.
Thank you for reading!