We are entering Thanksgiving break, the end of the semester is in sight, finals are on the horizon and sleeping is on the top of most people’s “to do” list for this week. To be candid with whomever may be reading this — I am surprised that you are. You probably have some papers you procrastinated the entire semester on to start and complete. Studying might be a thing that has to be done, and video games are always an option. But no, you are reading this… or are you?
The question I want to pose is not whether or not this article is worth it for you to read, but rather, what is worth your time? On an average day, what occupies you? Everyone is subject to the same 24 hours a day, a good portion of which is taken up by sleeping. So, say you sleep an average of 8 hours, you still have 16 hours at your disposal. Even if you work another eight hours, there is still the question of what you do with the final eight.
One of the reasons behind the title of this article is that you are probably not spending those remaining eight hours on reading — at least, not reading for fun. One suggestion on how you spend those last eight hours is to read. If you are looking for a mentor, look no further than those that took the time to impart their knowledge onto pages for you to read.
If you are not reading, then write. Writing is another way of thinking, as it allows you to place down your thoughts and see them as they are. Writing also allows you to be a mentor to someone else, passing on what you know to someone that needs it. Helping and uplifting others, even through writing, is a noble gesture that lifts you up as well in the process.
Another suggestion on how to fill those eight hours of freedom is to learn. Take the time each and every day to learn something new. In just 20 total hours of practice on a specific skill, whether it be playing an instrument or learning a language, you can become proficient in that skill. Learning something new each day and explicitly repeating it rewires your brain and teaches you discipline as you pursue to be better each day.
Eight hours is a long time, but let’s say that, everyday, you are busy every moment except for one hour. Can you really do something with one hour a day? One hour a day is still 365 free hours a year, and if you follow the 20 hour proficiency rule, you could learn about 18 new skills over the course of a year.
Time is valuable — don’t spend all of it alone. Get involved where you can and meet others. There are over 300 organizations at WCU, so there is no excuse for why you can’t find one you like, and yes, they are still active in this online environment. Involvement in organizations enriches our resume, sure, but it also aids in the development of our communication and interpersonal skills. Both skills are essential in the job market and having a great grasp on them can only serve you well.
Lastly, it is your time to spend. Don’t let anyone tell you how to live your life, but please don’t waste it. You can help so many others while aiding in your own personal growth. When you waste your own time, you could be preventing others from experiencing how great you are. Above all, be happy in what you do; if you want to relax, do it, don’t wait for someone to give you permission and enjoy the time you have.
So, you made it to the end of this article — was it worth your time? Maybe. But, in the end, it is important to read, whether it is more of my articles or not. Ensure you learn something new each day, become a lifelong learner and be sure to get involved. Most importantly, spend your time as you see fit, but please don’t waste it.
Evan Brooks is a third-year Business Management major with minors in Economics and Civil and Professional Leadership. EB916132@wcupa.edu