Yesterday, I was intentional with my time.
Actually, to be very blunt, I was intentional with my computer time. I let myself on in the morning, and then I made myself close the laptop lid and walk away.
And I would only allow myself ten minute windows to pop on.
Then I walked away. Again.
And again.
And again.
It’s amazing how quickly the computer — and good things — takes over time. A minute here, a minute there, a quick check, an email reply, a tweet, a facebook update. Time just keeps moving — and I often end up crabby and complaining of “too little time” to get everything done.
As I sit here writing this I’m amazed at all I accomplished yesterday — laundry, played some games, baked cookies, cleaned, deep cleaned the boys room {that deserves it’s own status}, made a great dinner, went out to coffee, got groceries, and you know what? I feel good about how I used my time. I stayed on top of the most important — my home and my family — and I still was able to write and use my online time. Wisely.
Clock your time.
That’s what I’ve been doing. Using the computer? It’s a good thing. Using the computer too much so that your family doesn’t see your face and instead they just here those in a minutes? Not so good. So as this year comes to a close and the new year looms on the horizon I’m aiming to be wiser with time.
Do the real important.
Let me read to my kids, and not just let them see me reading a screen.
Let me use time wisely.
16 comments
So true! It can suck up an hour…when you think it’s only been ten minutes. I’ve been doing the same (except for yesterday)….today, once I turn it off…it won’t be on again until late. Today, we’re doing things we couldn’t while the kiddies were sick…and I’m thankful for friends like you who remind me of what is really important!
I.agree.wholeheartedly.
I took Twitter off of my IPhone and iPad…and I only read blogs, comment, and write when my kids are busy with other things and the house is in order. This is a recent phenomenon and I pray for the self discipline to continue.
I also started a wonderful book and gave myself a scrapbook project so I have some things over our school break that are ETERNAL.
Your day sounds wonderful, Rachel! That shoulder must be better!
It’s like the black hole of time; I am learning how important it is to have self discipline and not be a computer glutton.
P.S. Love your photos! And those chocolate covered whatever-they-weres looked delicious!
Amen! My ah -huh moment comes when I start lecturing my daughter to have a screen break. From the computer. Yah, ok. Practicing what we preach! Good for the goose and the gander! Merry Christmas!
this is why i’m scared to join twitter – just another thing to keep up with! i never do computer stuff on the weekends and it is WONDERFUL! i think with blogging it’s easy to want to capture and record life without really living it because we’re too busy taking pictures to be right there with our family, or we are too busy thinking of how to write about things when we cold be engaged in conversation with our spouse. by “we” i mean ME! and one hour on the computer seems like 10 min. it’s the biggest time sucker ever! you’re right, it is a good thing…. the computer is a blessing if balanced. thanks for reminding me!
I think that the message’s tie with technology has a particular impact for the younger generation (especially with the reaches of technology expanding, not contracting). In the end, the principle of using our time wisely is for everyone. Even as I reminded myself of this today in the big issues of life, it’s good to hear a reminder to spend my time well in the day-to-day as well.
Thanks, and Merry Christmas!
Camden
Ephesians 5:15-16
Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.
I am retired, but still have so much that I would like to do. I know that I have to limit myself to an hour in the morning and maybe a half hour at night on the computer, or it could eat up my whole day. Isn’t it amazing how something good can be twisted into some thing bad.
Seriously, I have been doing the very same thing. The first day I realized how very much time I have been wasting! I cleaned my bedroom, which had become cluttered, put away long since folded laundry, 3 more loads were washed, dried, folded/hung AND put away. I also made two meals and prepped for another. That was all on a SUNDAY-between two church services! I was shocked.
Yell at me if you see me too much!
I am so with you. While my kids are grown, I still battle with using time wisely. I’m already working on a schedule for 2012. I have got to be more intentional about my life – which is made up of time. My girls are trying to get my addicted — I mean on — pinterest. I really don’t need one more techno thing to fill time. I need to be out doing for others. Thanks so much for this awesome timely post. Blessings sweet friend.
You are very wise. Loved your pics of sweet Grace!!
Very true. I should really start doing something like that. I may make that my New Year’s Resolution. Only go on the computer for 10 minutes every two hours.. Well maybe ever hour… Well maybe 15 minutes every hour… Well I do have an online store to run! Haha, No. No. I think my store will survive if I only allow myself 10 minutes of online time every hour. I really need to spend more time in the studio creating things any ways.
Thanks for such a great, inspiring post!
Gah. This is ALWAYS my problem, and I know it, and it is SO HARD to fix that! I think I use the computer as a bit of an escape, a break when I’m tired. When what I ought to do is gather the kids and snuggle on the couch and read books. Thank you for being real – I’m glad I’m not the only one who struggles with this – and for the challenge/reminder!
It’s so true, how being on the computer takes up so much time. I really don’t know how people can have 2 or more websites, and everything else. It’s crazy how much time can be used online. I’m going to have to set my time to a schedule, I just can’t get everything done that needs to be!
It sounds like a wonderful day! I have had time disappear while on te computer. I need to follow you example.
Always praying!
John 14:27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
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Great reminder.
Thanks.
Hoping your Christmas is BLESSED!
Laurel 🙂