Making the Best of Time

I read a recent article in Time magazine that focused on a company transforming their typical stringent work hours into a more flexible schedule. What resulted was a productive team of professionals who accomplished more in less time. In this instance, the company proved that the old adage, time is money, wasn’t really true.

This story interested me because I struggle with getting things done in a normal day, let alone a shorter one. I am the type of person who would love to add a few more hours to a day, say 27 hours instead of 24. Imagine all I could accomplish with an extra 3 hours? I could get everything done and still have time left over to delve into projects that make me really happy, like stitching.

Shortly after reading this article, I took a trip to Rhode Island and had a conversation with my older sister about balancing life. I asked her how she holds everything together with all the responsibilities that she has on her shoulders as a working mom of two kids, ages 8-10. She said, “I make me-time three times a week. During this time, everyone knows I will retreat to my knitting chair in front of the television and indulge in my favorite activity. For that hour, I touch nothing but yarn and knitting needles.” I asked her what she did if her spouse or kids demanded her attention during that time. She said, “They know better. This time is scheduled and unless there is an emergency, they know not to disturb me.”

I truly believe my sister is a happier person for her me-time. She makes the best of her time. She treats her personal time as just as essential as laundry-time and making-lunches time. There is no guilt associated with taking moments to enjoy what gives her the pleasure and relaxes her spirit enough to slow down and enjoy life. As a result, she can give more freely to others.

Her conversation reinforced what the Time article said. Both showed me how by allowing myself free time to enjoy a piece of canvas and colorful thread, I can actually accomplish more. Since incorporating me-time into my week’s routine, I do feel more productive. Do I feel selfish for taking that needle to the fabric when I could be folding laundry or scrubbing my tub? Sure, I still struggle knowing I could be sweeping the floor or polishing furniture. But, something has changed in me that helps me keep my me-time. I am a much happier person and really look forward to those special moments when it is just me and my stitching. 

Sorry, Mr. Benjamin Franklin, time is definitely not money. Time is a valuable gift that I intend to spend wisely.

To help us make the best of our time in the best way a stitcher knows how, Pam Kellogg has designed, Blackwork Pumpkin, an adorable project that you’ll surely enjoy!

One young stitcher shares how stitching makes her feel. Click here to read.