Where Did the Time Go?

Make sure you know.

Well, it’s the beginning of the new year.  And once again we find ourselves wondering, “Where did the time go?”
And of course, the answer is always the same: “Into the ether.”

“Time Management” is a bit of a misnomer, as you don’t really manage time; you only direct it.
Time is not like money.  I can manage my money, and hopefully at the end of 2026 I’ll have a bit more of it than when I started.
In the case of time, I’ll have less of it at the end of this year than I did at the beginning.
So, directing your time is essential if you’re to be an effective and successful leader.

Here are some time-related questions for ensuring your 2026 is a strong one:

• How much time do you spend each week doing work you should or could delegate (and grow your direct reports’ skills)?
• What’s the important work you should be doing but don’t have enough time for?  If you don’t know, find out. Now.
• When will you coach your direct reports so you can delegate more complex work to them (and grow their skills), so you’ll have time for the important work?

After your health, time is your scarcest and most precious resource.  It continues to flow whether you waste it or “invest” it.
Be deliberate in how you direct it in 2026. 
It will always go into the ether, but hopefully this time next year, you’ll know better where your time went.