Time: Invest it wisely

Can you spare a second?

We never have enough time. So when we get the chance to make things faster, more efficient, or automate things into systematic workflow we grab the opportunity in an instant. On most occasions its the best thing to do as we all embark on an endless march towards greater efficiency, doing more with less in half the time. It becomes a powerful habit.

But what happens when we apply this habit universally and we stop investing time where its needed. The best GP's are efficient, but also invest time to ask how people are keeping in general - they know it's part of the role. The best leaders take time to build relationships and get to know their people. Your friends invest time to extend the longevity and depth of a friendship - often simply by caring. So we all need to critically assess where we need to invest our own time.....In some cases spending or giving time (I mean real, quality time without interuption or diversion) is the only way.

So, choose to invest time....

• in listening: really listening - with all your senses. Its an investment in time that is invaluable in gaining insight, employing empathy or simply just understanding what is the hell is going on here!

• in people: get to know them, understand their needs , their potential, their ability.

• in building great relationships with your team, co-workers, boss and your suppliers and customers. The payback here is huge.

• in excellence: spend 2 hours preparing for that two minute speech to make it a wow moment.

• In reading: gaining knowledge and ideas from the world around you. Seeing and inderstanding different perspectives or experiences. Make it your habit. Grow your knowledge.

• in growing and developing people: - mentor, coach, support, keep an eye on things, teach, lead.

• in thinking: analysing, innovating, considering, digesting. Dont rush this bit - time rounds out your thoughts and helps avoid cognitive bias driving the show.

• in slowing down: nuff said.

• in building a culture: deliberately going out of your way in setting standards, and being an example

• in looking outward: to see whats happening around you, outside your box - what are customers, suppliers, competitors doing? - how is your environment and technology changing?

• and of course..... in family & friends.

All of these things (and more) take lots of time. Quality time.

Manage your time accordingly. Don't let others urgencies or priorities get in the way of how you spend your valuable time - because it's precious.

Maybe it's time to invest our time in doing the important things slowly.... in a world of fast.