Technology saves time and then immediately invents new ways to spend it.
STILLNESS
WHAT THIS MEANS
Every tool that saves an hour creates a new expectation that consumes it. Faster mail meant more mail; instant messages meant constant availability. The time released is never simply given back, and this is not a flaw in any particular tool but the pattern of nearly all of them.
When something saves you time, decide immediately where that time is going. Otherwise it will be absorbed by default. Claiming it on purpose is the only way any efficiency gain reaches you rather than the surrounding system.
A QUESTION TO SIT WITH
Where did the time your devices saved you actually go?
MORE IN TIME, MORTALITY & LEGACY
- You can’t attend every event. But someone will remember which ones you skipped for no reason.
- Whoever taught you to drive stick gave you something you’ll still use when they’re gone. Teach somebody something.
- Your first job uniform will end up in a donation bag. The work ethic you built in it won’t.
Free, with nothing to buy inside it.