The Plot:
Time management and proper timing for performing various tasks are virtues that hold immense significance throughout life, from one’s professional career to the well-deserved retirement. These principles of managing time effectively and making the right choices (prioritising your work) are essential for personal growth, success, and even personal fulfillment. In this article, we will explore the importance of time management and appropriate timing in both the professional world and retirement, drawing valuable insights from my experiences during service as a military officer and now in retired life.
ÉLAN:
ÉLAN is adapted from a French word which implies; Enthusiastic vigorous and liveliness coupled with a distinctive style of functioning. The concept of ÉLAN,as I interpret encapsulates the idea that efficiency can coexist with relaxation. This is a principle that can be applied not only to the military but also to various professions including corporate and in various life stages.
1. Professional Life:
In a professional context, time management is a key driver of success. My experience as a staff officer to a highly efficient and organized Brigade Commander taught me that how punctuality, delegation, and effective communication contributed to a thriving workplace. By adhering to a structured routine and encouraging a healthy work-life balance, this leader inspired his team to perform at their best. The core principles that contributed to this professional ÉLAN include:
– Punctuality: Being on time for meetings, tasks, and events.
– Delegation: Trusting and empowering team members.
– Effective Communication: Open, constructive, and
Approachable communication.
– Trust: Building trust among team members.
– Laying down priority of work and separating Wheat from
Chaff.
– Appreciation of Good Work: Recognizing and acknowledging
Achievements.
2. The Pitfalls of Inefficiency:
On the contrary, my experience as a Company Commander working under a confused and disorganized Commanding Officer underscored the negative impact of poor time management and priorities of work. His inability to make timely decisions, not appreciating priority of work and pursuing unwarranted jobs first, lack of punctuality and failure to appreciate good work led to a demotivated and divided team. This served as a cautionary advice to me as to what can go wrong when time is mismanaged in a professional setting. I learnt a great lesson from his style of working and made sure that when I reached that position of leadership I did not indulge in these traits.
3. Retirement:
Time management remains crucial in retirement as well. While one may have more free time, effective use of this time is paramount. Retirement offers an opportunity to explore hobbies, engage in social work and give back to society. However, without proper time management, one can easily fall into a rut of wasting precious golden years. The retired phase of life can be fulfilling and enjoyable if one cultivates good habits and hobbies, such as:
– Pursuing hobbies like photography, writing, or painting.
– Volunteering and engaging in social work.
– Maintaining health and well-being through regular
Exercise and check-ups.
– Contributing to the community and society through various
Social initiatives.
Conclusion:
In both one’s professional career and retirement, the principles of time management and appropriate timings are vital. By embracing qualities like punctuality, delegation, effective communication, and trust, individuals can foster an environment of efficiency and relaxation, achieving ÉLAN in their lives. In retirement, the importance of time management should not be underestimated, as it can make the difference between an idle existence and a fulfilling, purpose-driven retirement. In essence, the way we manage our time determines the quality of our journey, whether it be in the hustle of a career or the tranquility of retirement.
Guchi.
Improve Your Life 