Princeton Happenings

Time? What Time?

There is a song by the Rolling Stones, “Time Is On My Side,” but I’m realizing that may not be the case. I feel like I’m always running out of time. Busy with this job, busy with my part time job, busy being a wife, a friend, a sister, a daughter. I wear many different hats, and sometimes my head gets tired and I just want to rest.

I am a fan of lists, so here is my list of things you can do to save time for the important things in life.

5. When doing work on your home computer, shut all other apps down. Sometimes I am working on my second job at home, and I not only have my work website up, but I have my Facebook, email, this website, that website… I realize if I shut everything down but the one thing I should be working on, my work gets done in more than half of the time.

4. Stop saying yes. Instead of saying yes to every summer cookout, event, party, take some time for yourself and for your close loved ones. On the 4th of July, my husband and I decided to stay home. We got wine and a bunch of different cheeses and just relaxed. It was absolutely wonderful! My parents joined us for a bit, and it was so much better than running here and there to make everyone happy. Instead of fireworks, we had smores. Delicious!

3. Slow down. Don’t schedule things so close. I find with two jobs and a household it can be a difficult juggling act. I am constantly answering emails for job number two while I’m riding the bus to work, talking with clients on my lunch break, and the minute I leave work at 6 I’m on the phone with clients. Sometimes I have to just step out of the office for lunch and actually enjoy a nice salad and some chit chat or go home and watch a movie with my husband instead of talking with clients. It’s all about time management.

2. Keep a journal or blog. Write down fun things that you have done, experiences that you have had. This way you can read back on them in years to come.

1. Instead of spending money, spend time. I love to just take the day, take a drive with my husband, or go to a port city with my sister, or the zoo with my parents. Instead of birthday presents, say let’s spend the day together!