How often do we use those words, “If only I had time to…”

If only I had time to smell the roses, had time to learn a new skill, had time to spend with family and friends.

We all have twenty-four hours in a day. We are all busy with work and of course we all must sleep.

What do we do with the rest of our time? Sometimes if we admitted it, we just waste it on unimportant, trivial things. Sometimes we waste other people’s time as well as our own and we don’t realise it.

Making time takes strategy.

Time is precious; once it is gone it can never be regained.

When we are young time seems endless, but as we grow older it seems as if we are always running out of time.

Do we need to be mindful of our time and what we do with it?  Yes, I think we do.

Firstly, we must decide what we would like to do with our time. If it is learning a new skill then we need to find out all we can about what is required to do it…the time, place and the materials required.

Next, we need to set that time aside. This may take reorganising things, setting priorities.

The time to start something is today. Procrastinators waste time.

Don’t let other people influence your decision…after all it is your time.

Let us look at friends and family, it is important that you don’t let them waste your time.

If ringing someone, ask if it is a convenient time for them.  The same thing applies when planning to visit or when going out with them.

Set a time to spend with them. Whether it is on the telephone or in person.   Make it an enjoyable time, share positive interests, live in the moment. When the time together is up, thank them for their time and move onto what is next for you.

We have all been guilty of wasting other people’s time, by not giving it the same value as we do our own.

Thankfully, I now realise that everyone’s time is as precious as mine, and I try not to waste it on petty trivia, such as gossip and negativity.

People like to be around people that make them feel good. Take the time to make each encounter one of interest. Don’t make the conversation all about you.

There is an old saying: If you want something done ask a busy person.

The busier we are the more interesting our life becomes; we appreciate the moments more when we have time out by ourselves.

Some of the busiest times in my life have been the most fulfilling.

A positive attitude to life and being a good listener is what opens the door to all people of all ages.

Fill your time with interesting things. Make every moment count. Organise your time and you will have time to smell the roses. To learn a new skill. And to spend the time with those precious to you.

– Nancy