The Value of Time Management: Turning "I Don't Have Time" into "Make the Time"

In our fast-paced world, the phrase "I don't have the time" is a common refrain. It's a convenient excuse that often masks deeper issues of prioritization and time management. During today's Collective Cafe session exclusively on new social audio app, Chatter, we delved into the real meaning behind this phrase and explored actionable strategies to transform it from an excuse into an opportunity for growth and efficiency.

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The Myth of "Too Busy"

As we kicked off the session, I shared a personal anecdote that many can relate to. My daughter, when asked if she had prepared a birthday card for her mother, responded with, "I didn't have the time." This response, though seemingly harmless, reflects a deeper societal trend. We often claim to be too busy, but the truth is, we prioritize based on what we deem important.

Making Time for What Matters

If something truly matters, we will make the time for it. This principle applies to both personal and professional lives. Whether it's attending a crucial meeting or spending quality time with loved ones, prioritizing what’s important is key.

10 Responses to "I Don't Have Time"

Throughout the session, I outlined ten powerful responses to the "I don't have time" excuse. These responses are designed to shift the mindset from avoidance to action:

1. Time is What We Make It: If it's important enough, we will find the time.
2. Priorities Over Excuses: Adjust what can be shifted to make room for what matters.
3. Small Steps, Big Impact: Invest little moments for significant results.
4. Borrow from Your Future Self: Invest time now for future benefits.
5. Audit Your Day: Break down your schedule and find where minutes can be carved out.
6. Delegate and Elevate: Free up time by delegating tasks that aren't in your wheelhouse.
7. Invest Now, Reap Later: Putting in effort now saves more time later.
8. Make it a Habit: Incorporate time management into your routine.
9. Reflect on the Value: Understand the long-term benefits versus immediate effort.
10. Multitask Efficiently: Use multitasking to your advantage without compromising quality.

Applying the L.E.F.T. Approach

One of the most effective strategies discussed was the L.E.F.T. approach, an acronym for Listen, Empathize, Feel, and Turn. This method is particularly useful when dealing with clients who push back on the duration of meetings. By actively listening and empathizing with their constraints, we can propose solutions that align with their needs while emphasizing the value of the time investment.

EOS and the 90-Minute Meeting

A practical application of this approach is the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) 90-minute meeting. It's a free, no obligation meeting that counts as an official session, offering up a coaching preview. In rare cases, clients balk at dedicating 90 minutes to a meeting, asking if it can be shortened.

Using the learnings from above and L.E.F.T., here's how to address this concern by taking the focus away from the input (90 minutes) and shifting it to both output (the opportunity to make an informed, considered decision to move forward - or not) and most importantly, outcome (value, overcoming and eliminating pain, getting what you want from your business):

• Imagine the Relief of Clarity: How would it feel to have a clear plan and direction after 90 minutes?
• Pain Today, Gain Tomorrow: A 90-minute investment now can save countless hours of stress later.
• End the Chaos: How much is it worth to eliminate operational chaos?
• Transform Frustration into Focus: What would focused, productive efforts mean for your team?
• The Cost of Inaction: Consider the ongoing costs of not addressing these issues now.
• Unlock Potential: Imagine the upside of addressing pain points head-on.
• Strategic Decision Making: How valuable is it to have everyone on the same page?
• Long-term Solutions: Implement solutions that benefit long-term rather than quick fixes.
• Enhanced Team Morale: Visualize the boost in morale and productivity.
• Peace of Mind: How much is peace of mind worth to you?

Ultimately, effective time management is about more than just squeezing tasks into a busy schedule. It’s about prioritizing what truly matters, investing time wisely, and leveraging strategies that turn "I don't have time" into "make the time." By adopting these principles, we can achieve greater clarity, focus, and efficiency in all aspects of our lives - at work and at home.