Eight of Spades

It is commonly thought that there are 8 hours in the typical work day.  While that may be true for some people, it is not unusual for others to work 9, 10, 11, or even 12 hours each day.  Let's not focus on the time that you spend at your job.  Unless you work for yourself or are doing your dream job, the best part of your day might be when you leave work.  This week, the Eight of Spades will represent the flexible 8 hours of your day.  If you sleep 8 hours and work 8 hours, then there is another 8 hours available to you to use as you choose.  

In order to maximize your elective 8 hours, think of the time as a pie with slices that must be served.  The sizes of the sections will vary from week to week.  This is necessary in order to maintain the delicate balance between all of your roles and responsibilities.  Some categories might include:

Economy, Information, Group, Humor and Talent. 

You may allocate 1 hour to pay your bills, balance your budget, and handle any other financial business.  This time is needed to address your personal economy.  Another hour and a half could be dedicated to studying if you are in school.  If you are not pursuing an actual degree, you could use the time to read the daily newspaper, a magazine, or something else to increase your knowledge.  A conversation, webinar, or some other format of learning can be used to fill the time you have set aside for information.  Of course, time must be given to your family and friends.  Your support group requires attention from you in order to thrive and flourish.  They may need 2 hours per day.  While you are focusing on money, knowledge, and others, remember to take time to laugh.  A sense of humor is an essential tool to help you keep things in the proper perspective.  An hour of  laughter can make a difference in how you feel and how you react to situations.  There are still 2 hours left in the pie.  Use it to work on your talent, or gift.  If you are an athlete or musician, the time may be used for practice.  Photographers can plan to take pictures during the hours assigned to this pie slice.  Don't dismiss your hobbies as a waste of time.  Allow your creativity room to shine.

You need to P.A.C.E. yourself to get the most value out of your elective 8 hours.  There might be a Peach pie for the sweet things that bring a smile to your face, or an Apple pie for those sour, or tart issues that you might approach with less enthusiasm, or a Chicken pot pie to acknowledge determination, hard work, and accomplishment.  Eat an extra slice when you need help with effective time management.