Managing your time – The paradox of planning: why time management is not enough without Collaboration. When Philosophy and Poetry shape time management.

“on one hand, we are not alone and on the other hand, hell is other people”

Planning what you are supposed to do and having total control of what you want doesn’t guarantee success. Why? Because of other people…”

John Donne’s (University of Cambridge) famous quote “no man is an island” emphasises the importance of social connection and community. Donne’s words suggest that we are all interconnected and that our actions and decisions impact those around us. The quote speaks to the fundamental human need for companionship and support and highlights the ways in which we rely on others to thrive and succeed. In essence, Donne’s quote serves as a reminder that we are not alone in this world and that our connections to others are not only vital to our happiness and well-being but are simply unavoidable.

In contrast, Jean-Paul Sartre’s (Ecole normale supérieure) quote “Hell is other people” is a powerful and controversial statement that reflects the human experience of isolation and our need for social interaction. In his play “No Exit,” Sartre portrays three characters trapped in a room together, unable to leave or escape each other’s presence. The characters are forced to confront the consequences of their actions and the impact they have on one another, ultimately realising that they are each other’s torturers.

So, on one hand, we are not alone and on the other hand, hell is other people…Clearly not a great position to be in when trying to manage your time.

“managers spend an average of 23 hours per week in meetings”

According to a survey conducted by Doodle in 2021, managers spend an average of 23 hours per week in meetings, which equates to roughly 1,196 hours per year. This is just one instance among many where colleagues have the opportunity to disrupt your time management efforts at work. When you factor in the demands of family and friends, it becomes clear how much others can affect your ability to manage your time efficiently.

Managing your time – Who is responsible?

Managing your time is not just about managing yourself, but also about managing the people around you. When planning your time, it is important to keep in mind the impact that other people can have on your ability to stick to your schedule. This includes colleagues, family members, friends, and even strangers. People can disrupt your plans with unexpected requests, unscheduled meetings, or by simply taking up more of your time than you had anticipated. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of these potential disruptions and plan accordingly. By anticipating and managing the impact of “others” on your time and being ready to adapt, you can become more effective and efficient.

Signs you can’t manage your time?

  • Lack of prioritisation: You may struggle with managing your time because you have difficulty prioritising tasks and determining what is most important.
  • Poor planning: If you don’t have a clear plan or schedule for your day, it can be challenging to allocate time effectively and stay organized.
  • Procrastination: Procrastination can lead to time mismanagement, as you may delay important tasks and end up feeling overwhelmed or rushed later on.

In short, it is imperative to know how to deal with other people’s demands to be able to master time management.

This is why one cannot become a master of time management without also mastering the art of collaboration. Time management and collaboration are inextricably linked, two sides of the same coin, and necessary for achieving success.

So next time you plan your day, your week, or your month, remember John and Jean-Paul… and beware of “others”.

#timemanagement, #wellbeing, #collaboration