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Azaliia_Persits
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Time is the ultimate currency. We often fail to appreciate just how much of a premium we should place on this resource. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve accepted an invitation only to regret the decision later. Why did I agree to that time-sucking conference call in four weeks? Why is my schedule filled, yet I feel like I’m wasting my time? The short answer is that I’m really good at saying yes. But just like Ric explained, it often puts me in a place where I’ve indirectly said no to more important things in my life.
In light of this, and at the insistence of Ric, who I consider a significant mentor, I now keep a “no” journal. I’m a firm believer in the idea that what gets measured gets managed. Anytime I say no to an ask that I would have previously said yes to, I record the ask into my journal. If you’re anything like me, you’re probably skeptical that this plan is going to work out. It’s easy to start journaling, but it’s hard to do it consistently. Not only that, how am I going to assess my progress? Grading your own homework can be a problem.
To combat these tendencies, I said yes to monthly accountability calls with Ric Elias (and bless his heart, Ric didn’t say no to agreeing to this arrangement). We review my journal—all the asks I said no to in the previous month—and how much time it opened up for the future. This has not been easy. It’s actually been one of the hardest things I’ve ever done.
Most of us understand the concept of having a good financial advisor to help manage our finances. We recognize that a good doctor can help improve and preserve our health. But I think we fail to appreciate the role that a good time management consultant can play in helping us recognize our shortcomings and optimize our most precious resource.