The Important Things First

Do you want to accompllish something of significance in your life and work?

See, it isn't just about getting a lot done. It's about getting the important things done that matters.

That reminds me of the old object lesson where you are given some rocks, some stones, some gravel, some sand and some water. You are told to put them into a glass jar. If you start with the small stuff first - the water, the sand and the gravel, you'll be lucky if there is much room at all for the stones, and likely none for the rocks.

However, if you put the rocks in first, tuck the stones in between them, shake the gravel down in amongst the stones and rocks, then let the sand filter down, you'll have room enough left for the water too - and it will all fit in.

The secret of course, is to put the largest items in first, then the progressively smaller items.

If we do the same with our plans for the day - put in the most important items first, then all the other stuff will fit in as well. But if we try to start with all the minor, but often easiest things to do, we usually find that we don't have time for the things that really should come first.

Next time you plan your day, take a few minutes to think about what is most important for you to do. Prioritize your list and do the most important things first if at all possible.