Nowadays, between school, college, office work, and managing a business, it often seems impossible to find time for the things that truly matter to you. Maybe it’s a hobby, learning a new skill, exercise, or just some quiet time for yourself.

The good news? You can make time for what you want—even in the busiest schedules. It takes intention, smart planning, and a little mindset shift.

Never get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life. — Dolly Parton

Let’s divide this discussion into steps on how you can make time for the things that you want to do

 

1. Identify Your True Priorities

What it means:

You can’t make more hours in the day, but you can decide what’s worth your time.

How to do it:

• Write down your top 3–5 goals (e.g., fitness, learning, family, side project).
• Be honest about what really matters vs. what just feels urgent.
• Separate urgent from important—not everything urgent is important.
• Ask yourself: If I could only do three things daily, what would they be?

 

2. Track Your Current Time Use

What it means:

Most people underestimate how much time they lose on low-value tasks.

How to do it:

• For 3 days, track everything you do in 30-minute intervals.
• Spot time-wasters (e.g., endless scrolling, gossip calls, aimless TV).
• You’ll be surprised at the hidden pockets of free time you have.
• Be honest—this is for your improvement, so no sugar-coating.

 

3. Use Time Blocking

What it means:

Give every important task its own dedicated time box in your day.

How to do it:

• Decide when you’ll work on what, instead of relying on “when I’m free.”
• For example: 6:30–7:00 AM for workout, 8:00–8:30 PM for personal project.
• Set realistic time limits—avoid putting too much into one block.
• Add life essentials—meals, prayer, workouts, family time, commuting.

 

4. Leverage Small Time Pockets

What it means:

Don’t wait for big chunks of free time—use the small ones wisely.

How to do it:

• Read a few pages of your favourite book during commutes.
• Reply to important messages while waiting in line.
• Review notes while eating lunch.
• Do future you favors—tidy your desk, prepare tomorrow’s outfit, note down grocery items.

 

5. Apply the “One Less” Rule

What it means:

Do one less of something unproductive to free up time for something meaningful.

How to do it:

• 30 min less social media—30 min of skill learning.
• One less TV episode—more family time or side hustle work.
• Say one less yes—to things that don’t align with your goals.
• Spend one less minute in micro-decisions—pre-plan outfits, meals, or workouts for the week.

 

6. Stack Activities

What it means:

Combine two compatible tasks so you do more without adding extra hours.

How to do it:

• Listen to audiobooks while walking or cooking.
• Brainstorm ideas while commuting.
• Add habits to habits—meditate right after your morning chai/coffee, stretch right after brushing your teeth.
• Turn downtime into prep time—wait for water to boil while tidying your kitchen or making a to-do list.

 

7. Learn to Say “No”—IMPORTANT

What it means:

Every “Yes” to something unimportant is a “No” to your own priorities.

How to do it:

• Politely decline events or requests that don’t align with your goals.
• Use: “I’d love to, but I’m focusing on X right now.”
• Use the Hell Yes or No rule—if it’s not an enthusiastic yes, it’s a no.
• Pause before agreeing—buy yourself time with phrases like, “Let me check my schedule.”

 

8. Protect Your “Golden Hours”

What it means:

Your energy is highest at certain times—use them for the most important work.

How to do it:

• If you’re a morning person, do your biggest task before work/school.
• If you’re a night owl, dedicate late evenings to creative work.
• Set boundaries—avoid scheduling meetings or calls during your peak focus times.
• Review and adjust weekly—your golden hours may shift; stay flexible but protective.

 

9. Be Consistent, Not Perfect – NOBODY IS

What it means:

It’s better to make a little progress daily than to wait for the “perfect” free day.

How to do it:

• Even 15 minutes daily adds up over time.
• Don’t quit if you miss a day—restart immediately.
• Celebrate small wins—acknowledge every step forward, no matter how tiny.
• Accept setbacks as learning—mistakes are part of growth, not failure.

 

Conclusion

Finding room for the things that truly matter doesn’t mean adding hours to your day—it’s about choosing how you spend the ones you already have. By being intentional, organizing your time, and protecting moments for growth and personal fulfillment, you can make progress on your goals without feeling overwhelmed. Small, steady actions consistently applied lead to big results over time.

 

💬 Ask Yourself This

Which part of your day could you reclaim for something meaningful, and how will you use it starting tomorrow? 🤔

Pick a notebook, write it down.

– Stay happy, stay blessed