Ten Speed Time Management

Maybe I’m a little dated using a 10-speed bike reference—it feels very 1970s—but the metaphor works perfectly for how we handle our days. Imagine getting on that bike for a long ride. You start in a low gear to gain momentum, then shift through the gears as you gain speed, eventually hitting 10th gear at a strong, steady clip. On a smooth, flat road, staying in those high gears makes you incredibly efficient with your time and energy. You cover more ground in less time and actually enjoy the ride.

Now, imagine there are steep hills, and you’re riding through town with lights, cars, and crowds blocking your way. You’re rarely in 10th gear; instead, you’re constantly starting, stopping, and shifting back down to low gear. By the end, you’re exhausted and haven't actually gone very far.

That is how life feels for many of us today. Between smartphones, social media, and constant emails, we are hit with distractions with frightening consistency. These interruptions—whether from others or self-imposed—keep us in low gear and rarely allow us to reach our most productive state.

Efficiency is doing things right, but effectiveness is doing the right things. To be truly effective, we need to reach 10th gear for the "big rocks" in our lives: the important projects, a child’s attention, time with your spouse, or our own fitness. While some distractions can't be helped, most can.

Don't wait for a "deferred-life plan" or retirement to start living and working better. Pick a course that allows you to get into 10th gear and stay there for the things that matter most. Whether your goal is to escape the rat race or simply work less and live more, you need to find your momentum.

Happy riding.