How to create time

Changing the way you look at time will instantly help you feel less busy, says Penny Wincer

Embrace your situation

Maybe you’re working and studying or you have a young child who is a terrible sleeper. Accepting what is out of your control can help you create more time as you can’t simply blame it on something you can’t change. When we accept the things that drain our time, we can find work-arounds that take those things into account. Try using the writing prompt: ‘Before I create more time for myself, I need to accept…’ to get that process started.

Pay yourself first

There is never any ‘leftover’ time after all the jobs and demands of life are done so make sure you ‘pay yourself first.’ Choose times for yourself that you set aside in advance, the same as you would a medical appointment or important meeting.

Stop saying “I’m too busy”

Instead, try “I’m choosing not to focus on that right now.” When we change our language from “too busy” to “choosing not to” it reminds us that we are focusing on our priorities.

Find accountability

Some people struggle with commitments to themselves but have no problem when commitments are external. If that’s you, setting up accountability could make a difference. Promise to run with a friend instead of exercising alone or use a virtual co-working platform to work on a writing project.

To find out more about Penny’s Creating Time course, visit pennywincerwrites.com.