In his book “Simplify your time”, time expert Prof. Lothar Seiwert describes the 7 most common errors in the perception and assessment of the phenomenon of time.
Below we have summarized the time misconceptions from Prof. Seiwert's point of view.
Error 1: I have no time
Pessimists complain about a lack of time and a lot of stress. But everyone has the same amount of time, namely 24 hours a day. It is important to use the time available in a self-determined way with meaningful tasks (see the article “Set your own time”). People having time appear more relaxed and confident.
Error 2: Faster is better
Many people spend their lives in the fast lane with speed, efficiency and productivity as supposed success factors. It is a fact that those who are always rushing will soon be ill. Those who discover the benefits of an unhurried life and slow down (“down-shifting” or “slow-living”) will do better. The 0815 rule is helpful here: 0 hustle and bustle, 8-sam (German term for "mindful"), 15-minute break.
Error 3: Those who do a lot are successful
A full diary, working overtime and stress are considered status symbols today. However, it is more physiological to concentrate on the essentials and focus on quality rather than quantity. Reserving time in your diary for the unexpected and setting priorities with consistent “no” statements help to avoid getting caught up in unimportant things.
Error 4: Internet and co. are time savers
The consequences of new information technologies are a flood of data, constant availability and pressure to be active with short reaction times. The technologies should be used with caution, i.e. do not start the day with a cell phone and computer, answer e-mails in a targeted manner, put work and private cell phones on silent and communicate directly with your neighbor. It may be possible to save time with the new AI tools.
Error 5: Multitasking saves time
Like the many-armed Indian god Shiva, we try to manage several tasks at the same time at work and at home, resulting in high error rates, poor health and even burnout. Low-stress “monotasking” delivers better results. Upcoming tasks should be prioritized and successively completed with mindfulness and without distractions.
Error 6: Breaks are unnecessary
Disciplined working without breaks leads neither to efficiency nor to creativity, because humans are not designed for continuous working. Breaks after approx. 90 minutes of hard work are sources of energy that need to be learned: Movement instead of a desk, switching off instead of concentrating, taking a deep breath instead of rushing and resting instead of communicating. Simply schedule breaks and naps into your calendar.
Error 7: Procrastination is only for the lazy
A busy schedule does not allow for time out. However, the brain needs breaks to process and organize all the information. Laziness is important to get away from the daily grind and stay creative. Therefore, simply enjoy “laziness” to your heart's content and without a guilty conscience by doing nothing on a free afternoon, evening or Sunday morning.
