Issue 49

These past few days have been without question some of the saddest and difficult of my life. I drove down to Durban to assist in the moving of my sister into a frail care facility. She has a disease called SCA Type1 (Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type1). This is a rare condition characterized by progressive problems with movement, coordination and balance. SCA Type1 symptoms also include swallowing and speech difficulties, spasticity and eye muscle weakness. Individuals with SCA Type1 also have difficulty processing, learning, and remembering information. My sister is 59 – her movement is severely compromised. She can no longer write and her speech is almost monosyllabic. Seeing her deterioration made me once again realise how short life really is and how we fritter way precious time.

So what is the 86 400?

That’s how much time each and every one of us is given every day – 86 400 seconds – no more no less. We all have a bank account called Time. We are credited 86 400 seconds every morning. There is no overdraft facility; no drawing against tomorrow; no saving of that day’s deposit. At the end of the day there is a 0 balance.

1. They know and are committed to their values.

It surprises me how many people have no idea what their values are. What really drives, motivates and inspires them? By knowing and living according to one’s values, one lives a more fulfilling and focused life. One also knows where to spend one’s time in accordance with what is important and what provides purpose.

2. They have purpose and are purposeful.

Those who use their time wisely spend it on activities that advance their overall purpose in life. When one channels one's time and energy towards purpose, people are enlivened, motivated and can most fully realize their potential.

3. They equip others:

Those who use their time properly know their own limitations and equip others in order to compound their own productivity. They build teams to create legacies and know that legacies are carried on by people, not awards. They mentor others and see the effect of their leadership spread through those they equipped.

4. They are attuned to their strengths.

People who use their time correctly are attuned to their strengths. They are constantly honing and refining what they do best. By doing so they become more effective, focused, productive and successful.

5. They choose happiness.

Choosing happiness seems obvious however many people are chasing after power and prestige and sadly their relationships take second place. Family time is compromised and success becomes an empty achievement. Family and friendships are two of the greatest facilitators of happiness. So is scheduling leisure time as this combats stress and allows us to delight in hobbies that bring us joy.


To see Terry’s course menu and the programmes she facilitates please visit her website www.tlz.co.za

Terry can also be contacted on +27 82 553 3581 or terryz@mweb.co.za

Professional Member: Professional Speakers Association of Southern Africa (PSASA)

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