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It's About Time
Ruth Wong
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20 things to make time for this year
Do you, like me, love the beginning of the New Year with all its promise?
Here's my simple reflection in the Japanese 17-syllable poetry form of haiku. It reflects my anticipation while lamenting how quickly the year passes.
The New Year has come!
Days like sand through my fingers
-- Going, going, gone.
Because the days and months pass so quickly, I'd like to offer some ways you can "carpe diem" (seize the day) to make this year fulfilling. (Surprise -- it's not about increasing productivity and getting things done, although that is important. Instead, it's about little things we don't always make time for, but which enhance relationships, growth and quality of life.)
1. Have a good, relaxing conversation with a friend.
2. Do something just for the fun of it.
3. Let your mind float free (on your time, not company time).
4. Try something new; stretch yourself.
5. Follow through on a good intention.
6. Keep in touch with a distant friend or relative.
7. Share another's sorrow.
8. Share another's joy.
9. Take a leisurely stroll.
10. Share your substance; donate your excess.
11. Finish an incomplete project.
12. Let go of a grudge.
13. Marvel at the sunset.
14. Forgive yourself.
15. Record your thoughts and feelings in a journal.
16. Show or verbalize appreciation.
17. Cultivate a new friendship.
18. Get to know your neighbors.
19. Take time for yourself to do something you've always wanted to do, or to just do nothing.
20. Each night, take time to reflect on the highlight of your day, and be thankful.
Add your own ideas and at year's end, hopefully you can look back on good memories, stronger relationships and satisfying moments.
I wish you the best year ever! See you in two weeks!
Ruth Wong will teach the following classes at the University of Hawaii at Manoa: How to Manage Time and Get Things Done, Feb. 3; How to Organize Your Workspace, Feb. 10; Overcoming Roadblocks to Getting Things Done, Feb. 17. Classes run 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and cost $45 each, or take all three for $120. Call 956-8400.
"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