It’s About Time Ruth Wong

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Carpe diem to make
the most of each day

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Can you believe that it's almost April? Do you feel like the days are passing by too fast? "Time flies" is a saying that seems all too apropos these days.

Because time flies by so quickly, and because time lost can never be regained, we really need to "carpe diem" -- seize the day.

While the year is still fairly new, I want to share "Seven Ways to Seize the Day."

1. Have clear goals for today, this week and month. Working toward goals will help keep you on the path of accomplishing those things that are important to you.

2. Identify your top-priority tasks for the day. All tasks are not created equal. Identify what's important and focus on getting them done.

3. Take time to plan how and when you will accomplish your main tasks. A mental plan and schedule is good but just isn't enough. A written plan and schedule is needed. It will be your road map to getting important things done.

4. Do things promptly. Don't procrastinate just because you don't feel like doing something. Do you really want to face that task tomorrow? Isn't it better to do it now and get it over with?

5. Eliminate time wasters. Are mindless television viewing, excessive surfing of the Internet, prolonged phone calls, junk mail, daydreaming, worry or regret stealing your time? Arrest them and gain precious time to spend on things that make a positive difference in your life.

6. Take time for yourself. Time for relaxation, recreation and hobbies will help you to keep a needed balance between work and leisure.

7. Make time for people who are important to you. After all, relationships are what's really important in life.

I encourage you to put into practice the above ways to "carpe diem" and make the most of each day. And since your life is a succession of days, you'll be making the most of your life!

See you in two weeks!

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"It's About Time," by Ruth Wong, owner of Organization Plus, runs the fourth Friday of each month. Contact her at "It's About Time," care of the Honolulu Star-Bulletin, 7 Waterfront Plaza, Suite 210, Honolulu 96813; or e-mail features@starbulletin.com