Some people diet obsessively. Others manage their time obsessively. Both obsessions can be driven by a lack of self worth—a constant striving to be more acceptable, more productive… better.

Time management systems can suppress our own innate wisdom and cravings for vitality. Your calendar may say it’s a “high-priority day” when really, you need a break to reconnect with your mom, or cook a good meal very slowly. You block out two hours to work on your project plan, but then your best friend’s number shows up on your caller ID and you’re faced with an immediate conflict.

You push yourself when your heart isn’t in it.
Your to-do list becomes more important than your fatigue.
You work to earn your time off, and you’re too beat to enjoy it when you get it.

Time regimens can certainly do wonders for getting the most out of life. We need them like we need good eating habits. I batch my actionable tasks, I schedule in administrivia days, and I have key priorities—because accomplishing a lot is a major rush for me. But ‘tis my relationship to those time management methodologies that makes all the difference in my psyche, and therefore the quality of what I do.

If we’re going to kick our time diets… then everything that gets on the calendar needs to be assessed for its nutritional value.

The guiding question becomes, Does this sustain me or exhaust me?

When you’re clear on what activates the joy within you, time management becomes a means to self-expression, not self-policing. And “making time” becomes an act of service so that you can be your best for those around you.

You’re the boss. Make time for what nourishes you—what matters most.

You are Magic,