The Problem Is You Think You Have Time

How often do you catch yourself saying, “I’ll do it tomorrow,” or “I have plenty of time for that later”? The harsh truth is, we don’t have as much time as we think.

Let me put it into perspective. If the average lifespan is around 80 years, that’s just 4,000 weeks. If you’re 25, you’ve already used up 1,300 of those weeks. Doesn’t sound like a lot, does it?

I don’t say this to scare you. I say it because it woke me up when I realized it myself. Time is slipping away, and every day we spend waiting for the “right moment” is a day we’ll never get back.

My Wake-Up Call

A few years ago, I was stuck in a cycle of procrastination. I told myself I’d “start next week.” Whether it was a new project, spending time with loved ones, or making a bold decision, I always thought there was more time.

Then I lost someone close to me. Suddenly, the reality of how fragile and fleeting life is hit me like a truck. It wasn’t about regret for what I’d done. It was regret for all the things I hadn’t done because I assumed there’d always be time later.

That moment changed everything. I decided I didn’t want to look back one day and wonder, “What if?”

How to Stop Wasting Your Time

If you feel like you’ve been letting time slip through your fingers, don’t beat yourself up. What matters is what you choose to do now. Here are a few ways to make the most of the weeks you have left.

1. Figure Out What Really Matters
   Most people spend their time on things that don’t truly matter—scrolling social media, binge-watching shows, or stressing over things they can’t control. The first step to using your time wisely is figuring out what’s actually important to you.

   Is it building your dream career? Strengthening relationships? Taking care of your health? Write down your top three priorities and focus on them.

   Action Step: Take 10 minutes today to write down the three things you care about most in life. Then, ask yourself if how you’re spending your time reflects those priorities.

2. Say No to What Doesn’t Serve You
   Every time you say “yes” to something unimportant, you’re saying “no” to something that matters. Successful people aren’t afraid to say no. They know their time is valuable and guard it fiercely.

   Action Step: The next time you’re asked to do something that doesn’t align with your goals or values, practice saying no. Protect your time like it’s the most precious thing you have—because it is.

3. Start Small but Start Now
   Waiting for the “perfect moment” is one of the biggest time traps we fall into. The truth is, there’s no perfect moment. The best time to start is always now.

   Whether it’s a project, a dream, or a habit, take the first small step today. It doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to happen.

   Action Step: Write down one thing you’ve been putting off and commit to starting it today, even if it’s just for 5 minutes.

4. Spend Time with People Who Matter
   At the end of your life, you won’t remember the hours spent at work or scrolling online. You’ll remember the moments with the people you love.

   Make time for your relationships. Call your parents, spend time with your friends, and be present with your partner. Life is short, and the people we care about are what make it meaningful.

   Action Step: Reach out to one person you haven’t spoken to in a while and let them know they matter to you.

TAKEAWAYS:

• Life is shorter than you think. Make every week count.

• Focus your time on what truly matters to you.

• Stop waiting for the perfect moment and take action now.

• Invest in the relationships that bring you joy and meaning.

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See you on Friday ;)

Your Better Self.

Richard, Founder of Elevenstoic & Lussiety