Time used is time gained

When we look at the diaries of successful people, we will find that apart from being focused and working hard and passionately on their projects, they will also display a very sensible way of managing time. They could be multitasking which is considered to be the optimal way of saving time.

True, but then, one cannot really multitask all the time due to several constraints. Even if one is compelled to do one task at a time, if one follows the prescribed procedure then, it will be easier to complete the work efficiently and well.  Many a time, people think that speed is the key to accomplishment. However, that need not be necessarily true. Haste often makes waste. Even when the job on hand is a little complicated or even a mundane one, we tend to make mistakes when speed overtakes us. 

At such times, repetition of the activity will result in not only loss of time, but may also result in shabby work.

Remember, slow and steady wins the race. Yet, the main culprit who keeps us from success happens to be procrastination. 

How often have we not caught ourselves putting off our assignments or errands for another time or day? Have we also not realised that some odd jobs around our homes and offices never get done after we put them on the back burner. 

This pattern also holds good for our long-term objectives. Sometimes, we put them off till they become a distant dream. When we turn around wondering what really happened, we will find that our penchant for dillydallying has left us behind.

An instance from the Ramayana highlights the importance of time in the best possible way.

Rama, the crown prince of Ayodhya, was sentenced to an exile of fourteen years to redeem the promise made by his father King Dasharatha to his Queen Kaikeyi.

Kausalya, the mother of Rama, was extremely upset about the turn of events. She tried to dissuade her son from going away. When she realised that Rama had no intention of obeying his father, she offered to go along with him to the forest. 

When the Ikshavaku prince pointed out that her place was with Dasharatha, she came up with another caveat. 

She could not possibly send his new bride princess Sita away with him. Rama patiently explained Sita’s stance on the matter. When Kausalya broke down inconsolably and uncontrollably, Rama told her gently but firmly that he wanted to leave for the forest immediately because for him time used was equivalent to time gained. He could return earlier if he left without procrastination!