‘Time is money’ is a very common phrase that has, over the years, been used by different professionals and everyday people. This is actually among the principle that is behind the hourly wage in many countries. For many people around the world, time is literally money and therefore, time management is regarded as money management. However, not many people have taken their time to understand the phrase’s actual meaning or its relevance in our way of life. In the business world, many professionals agree that time equates to money. In fact, time is one of the most valuable assets or commodities in any organization and more precious than gold and diamonds combined. This is probably because time is always limited. Viewing time as money is very important in financial management because they both are of great value and can be used in similar ways. The four main things about money are that; it can be saved, spend, and be given away and can be invested. On the other hand, we cannot save time as it passes by each second and once it is gone, it can never be brought back. For time, one has three main options on how it can be used i.e.; one can invest it, give it away and spend it. This shows that managing time and money can be very similar. They both leave one feeling that there is not enough and wondering where it all went. In most cases, we are all left wondering where the time went and how it was spent, which is also the same for money.
Time is Money when managed well; there is more of it
Managing money often requires a well laid out budget, which is designed to help one spend and save effectively and track their income. Time management is also as important and very similar to managing money. Time is indeed money, but not all tasks undertaken result in the same financial rewards. Therefore, managing time well will help identify the tasks or activities that tend to eat into your time and how to use time more effectively. For example, as stated by Bill gates, when we focus on activities that have the greatest financial rewards in our daily activities and set aside or delegate tasks with minimal financial benefits, one will be set for success.
How to Manage Time Effectively and maximize financial rewards
To make more money and enjoy greater financial rewards, it is critical to learn how time can be managed more effectively. One of the biggest rewards of time management is the additional time one gets, which means that they can make money elsewhere. Therefore, time can be considered to be an essential currency in the modern world.
The following are some of the ways that can be used to manage time effectively:
- Track it
To manage time effectively, it is important first to assess how the time is being spent and whether it is being spent on productive activities. For example, this can be done by use of a spreadsheet where you enter how the time is spent or even wasted—keeping track of how the time is being spent shows how the time is going and why one thinks that they don’t have much time to engage in productive activities that will increase their income.
- Develop a sense of urgency
One of the most essential measures of time today is speed and the best quality that one can develop when it comes to the effective management of time is a sense of urgency. This involves the habit of being able to move fast in case an opportunity to make money presents itself. Research has shown that most of the successful people we have today not only work hard and hard, but they also tend to work fast.
- Create a written plan/schedule
It is important to write down how you plan to manage and spend your time for maximum financial rewards. For example, one can begin by writing down what needs to be accomplished within a given time. A written plan gives direction and guidance for the time just the way having a budget does for money. Also, having a schedule means that you will have a strategic way to get things done. It is important to note that it is up to you to stick to your desired level of productivity, which is very difficult but rewarding.
- Stop procrastinating
Procrastination is known as a thief of time and life. It is important to develop a habit to move quickly when something is to be done. As a general rule, one should carry out a task that earns them money immediately, given that delay may result in loss of money. One should avoid leaving things for the last minute. For example, you have to control how you spend your money now and how you budget while still having money.
- Understand your bottom Line
Whether you are employed or self-employed, it is essential to know the minimum amount of money you can get by monthly. This allows you to have a monthly goal that you can focus on and plan your time as well as finances. In this case, after getting to the minimum goal, you can work towards earning more than that.
- Learn to delegate
When you are unable to keep up, Bill gates suggest that people learn how to delegate some tasks to other equally capable people. Delegating tasks helps one to avoid losing money when too busy to handle all tasks within the required time. This also means that different tasks can be carried out simultaneously, hence saving time and earning money that would have otherwise been lost.
In conclusion, Yes, indeed, ‘time is money,’ and it should be invested wisely. The bottom line for all people who want financial freedom is to think of their time as an essential and precious commodity. Therefore, time is money and we should all invest in it. To increase financial rewards, invest in areas with the most financial benefits and rewards. Stop just wasting time, spending time and giving time away, invest it.