Value of time

Time is an objective measurable entity but, not its value. Every person may have a different understanding of ‘value’. By ‘value’ one may refer to materialistic things, for others, it might mean friendship, or companionship. Time offers us endless possibilities and opportunities to grow, achieve our goals, and create meaningful experiences. However, it’s significance is often underestimated and taken for granted.
Value is situation and person specific. None but one who has missed a flight will know better the value of one minute. None but one who has won a silver medal in the Olympics will know the value of one millisecond. It is when we start to value time, that time will start valuing us.

 

Learning to value time

Setting goals is an integral part of personal development, be it in our careers, relationships, health, or any other aspect of life. However, without the commitment to dedicate time and effort towards these goals, they remain dreams. And that, is when the value of time comes into play.
Compartmentalising time productively is the key to effectiveness. Sometimes a single moment can trigger a trail of things which can make us realize the true worth of time. Time rewards those who dare to rise above the mundane, chase their wildest dreams, and chart their own destinies.
People at different ages make use of time in different ways. A teenager would invest his time in studying and playing. A man in his 60s or late 50s would like to invest his time spending with his family and loved ones.

 

Idleness versus time wastage

We often underestimate the true value of time, squandering it recklessly, only to realise its significance when the end is reached. We tend to realize its value in real time when things go against us. However, wasting time thus does nor equate with laziness or idleness. These can actually turn productive as we can be struck by a strong inspiration while dwelling in a state of contemplation, often misconstrued as laziness.

Sadhguru had mentioned in one of his books, “Death”, that a certain software is set in every being and this software is a combination of time, energy and also intuition. Thus disrespecting time would mean disrespect to our own self.

Best ways to value time

When we see someone succeed, let us congratulate them and be proud that they made use of their time efficiently, rather than be envious of their achievements. We can check with them on how they made use of their time and get inspired to do likewise ourselves. Once we start doing it as a habit, we can see the change in our own lives.Personalities like Jeff Bezos , Mark Zuckerberg or Warren Buffet all had the same time as we all do. The difference lies in the fact that they have valued their time far better, which is reflected in the magnitude of their achievement.

 

About the authors

The article has been contributed by the following students from St. Joseph’s High School, Matigara, Darjeeling: Urbi Chakraborty, Shreoshee Saha,Lakshita Mittal, Jasmitha Barua and Rilamala Hembram.