Time Management

Time Management

A professor stood before his philosophy class and had some items in front of him. When the class began, wordlessly, he picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with golf balls. He then asked the students if the jar was full. They agreed that it was.

So the professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly. The pebbles rolled into the open areas between the golf balls. He then asked the students again if the jar was full. They agreed it was.

The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured it into the jar. Of course, the sand filled up everything else. He asked once more if the jar was full. The students responded with an unanimous “yes.”

The professor then produced two cups of coffee from under the table and poured the entire contents into the jar, effectively filing the space between the grains of sand.

The professor then started talking to the students. “My dear students, the jar is now full, but what is the message.” One student stood raised his hand and said, “However busy we might be, there is always time for some more work.” Good, said the professor, but I would like to add some more.

The students look curiously at the professor as he continued. However busy we may be, we can always find time for more work is right, but what if the sequence in which the items were placed in the jar was reversed.

Would there still be enough space for all things to be placed in the jar. So, my friends, the important thing in life is to understand your priorities. What things must go in first and which ones later. Once you have it right, it will all fit in well.

10/12/10