Slow Down to Be More Productive- The True Value of Free Time

In a recent Time Management workshop I was presenting, a participant asked a question that touches upon an important aspect of finding balance in today's busy, fast-paced world. While discussing time management strategies with a roomful of busy professionals, I was asked if I schedule ALL of my time. What a good question! The answer is no. Here is why.

It is easy to get caught up in the notion that scheduling our time better is the secret to getting it all done. Actually, that is not the case. There is tremendous value in the experience of unscheduled time. In today's society, unscheduled time is becoming a rare experience. That is unfortunate.

Some of my coaching clients come to their sessions exhausted. They tell me how busy they have been, running from one project or meeting activity to another. On top of that, the activities they have scheduled for themselves that are supposed to be leisure activities, feel as though they are just "one more task" on the "To Do" list. I recently had a client tell me that a massage felt like another obligation. Wow! When self-care or leisure activities feel like obligations, it is a big red flag signaling us that it is time to slow down! The experience of being "overscheduled" can be an enormous energy drainer in our lives.

Setting aside "free" time is another key to increasing productivity. Free time is time for which you have no agenda. Free time is time during which you set your To Do list aside and just see what you feel compelled to do during that time.

Free time promotes creativity. Free time allows your unconscious mind to go to work, solving problems that have been nagging at you. Free time rejuvenates you. Enjoying free time will improve your effectiveness when you are working.

When was the last time you truly let yourself experience free time?

When you set aside free time for yourself, don't be surprised to find it to be very uncomfortable initially. Resist the temptation to schedule anything during that time. You may feel antsy. You may feel a strong pull toward your To Do list. Don't give in!

Just relax and see what you feel like doing. Maybe you feel like painting. Maybe you feel like lying on a blanket and watching the clouds. Maybe you feel like going swimming or bike riding. Maybe you feel like reading a novel. Maybe you feel like going rock hunting. Maybe you feel like going to a store, museum or tourist attraction that you have always wanted to visit. Maybe you feel like taking a day trip. Maybe you feel like walking down the street and having a conversation with a neighbor. Who knows? There are limitless possibilities. Try it and see for yourself!