Time is one of the most valuable resources we have, yet it often slips through our fingers because we fail to truly recognize its worth. It’s so easy to get caught up in the day-to-day routine, distracted by the endless demands and expectations around us. Lately, I’ve been reflecting on the nature of time and how it can be both wasted and cherished, depending on how we approach it. In this post, I want to share my thoughts on how to protect and make the most of our time, so that it doesn’t pass us by unnoticed.
The True Value of Time
Time is often described as spiritually infinite, yet in our physical lives, it’s fleeting and limited. The most profound truth about time is that once it’s gone, you can’t get it back. Material possessions, money, and even opportunities can be replaced or replenished, but time is irreplaceable. We live in a culture that tends to undervalue time—always looking for shortcuts or “hacks” to get more out of each day, without recognizing that the time we have is already enough. It’s about making each moment count.
As I look at my planner each day, I’m reminded that intentional planning helps me stay grounded, focused, and present. We can’t control the clock, but we can certainly control how we use it. The act of planning, whether it’s a monthly schedule or a to-do list, brings a sense of purpose and mindfulness that allows us to avoid regrets down the line.
The Astrological Insights: Full Moon in Leo (February 12)
I’ve intentionally chosen to publish this reflection on February 12, 2025, during the Full Moon in Leo. For those who follow astrology, this is a time of boldness, courage, and self-expression. Leo, the lion, is ruled by the heart and thrives on authenticity. The energy of the Leo Full Moon encourages us to stand firmly in our truth and embrace our individual path without fear of judgment.
This is a powerful cosmic alignment to talk about valuing time, because Leo’s influence reminds us to let go of anything or anyone that dims our light. It calls for authenticity, which, in my opinion, directly ties into how we use our time. If we are truly being ourselves, we’ll naturally gravitate toward pursuits that serve our greater purpose, rather than wasting precious moments on distractions.
Ageing and Society’s Obsession with Youth
Society has long been obsessed with the idea of staying youthful, especially for women. The wellness and cosmetic industries thrive on our fear of ageing, pushing us to constantly fight against time as if we can reverse the clock with the right product or treatment. But the truth is, trying to defy time is a futile effort. We cannot stop the passage of years, but what we can do is focus on how we live those years.
The key to making time meaningful is to focus on the present moment, embracing the now rather than fighting the inevitable. If we can learn to stop fighting against ageing and start appreciating the wisdom that comes with it, we can enrich our lives immeasurably. Time becomes something to cherish, not fear.
Lessons from Mistakes: The Value of Reflection
Imagine if we had a time machine to go back and fix our mistakes. So many of us would jump at the chance to undo those moments we regret or redo things we could’ve done differently. The reality is that time travel isn’t possible (as of yet), and so we are left with only the present moment. This is where the real value of time lies—how we use it right now, in the present.
Reflecting on past decisions can be insightful, but if we get stuck in regret, we waste precious time we can’t afford to lose. Every moment spent wishing things were different is a moment we could be using to shape a better future. Our mistakes don’t define us; how we use our time moving forward does.
Wasting Time on the Wrong Things
A common mistake I’ve made—and one that I know many others can relate to—is spending time on opportunities, relationships, or situations that aren’t in alignment with our goals or values. This is especially true for women who may feel societal pressures to be accommodating, to put others’ needs before their own, or to please people even when it’s at the cost of their own well-being.
Recognizing when something isn’t serving us, when a situation is draining us, or when a person is taking more than they give, is key to protecting our time. In my experience, walking away from those things with your dignity intact is a form of self-respect. Time spent in the wrong place is time you can never reclaim.
The Youth vs. Envy Cycle
It’s also interesting how many older women express envy toward younger women, not necessarily for their beauty, but for the time they still have ahead of them. This sense of envy often centers around the idea that younger people have more opportunities to shape their futures, more time to build careers, relationships, and dreams. This perspective, while understandable, highlights the importance of valuing the time you have—no matter your age.
It’s crucial to recognize that every age comes with its own unique opportunities. Time doesn’t run out until we decide it does. The truth is, we all have the same 24 hours in a day, and it’s up to us to make the most of it, whether we’re 20 or 70. Don’t let the comparison to others waste your time. Your journey is yours, and it’s the one that deserves your full attention.
Self-Valuation: How Others Perceive Your Time
People can sense when you value your time—and when you don’t. When you respect your own time, others will follow suit. The way you handle your time reflects your self-worth. Setting boundaries around how you spend your time, whether it’s in personal relationships or professional settings, creates an environment of respect.
When you don’t set boundaries, you open the door to being constantly interrupted, overwhelmed, and drained. And the more you allow this, the more you communicate to others that your time isn’t valuable. Setting boundaries isn’t just about saying “no” to others; it’s also about saying “yes” to yourself and protecting your time.
The Power of Boundaries and Respect
Establishing boundaries is one of the most effective ways to stop wasting time. It’s an act of self-care that directly impacts how others treat your time. Sure, not everyone will understand or respect these boundaries, and that’s okay. Often, their discomfort comes from their own inability to value their time. But standing firm in your boundaries will make your time—and your life—more fulfilling.
You don’t need to feel guilty for prioritizing yourself. When you set clear boundaries around your time, you are signaling that you respect yourself, and in turn, others will respect you more.
Letting Go of the Need for Approval
One of the biggest time-wasters in life is worrying about what others think. It’s easy to fall into the trap of trying to meet everyone’s expectations, especially if you fear disapproval or rejection. But the truth is, most opinions are based on personal trauma, insecurities, or outdated beliefs. Freeing yourself from the need for constant validation can unlock a new level of personal growth and peace.
The more you value your time and yourself, the less you’ll be concerned with the judgments of others. When you embrace your authenticity and live in alignment with your values, you naturally attract people who respect you and appreciate your time.
Living Authentically: A Richer Life Awaits
Living authentically is the key to not only respecting your time but also experiencing a richer, more fulfilling life. When you live authentically, you stop wasting time on things that don’t matter to you and focus more on what truly brings you joy and fulfilment. And the world responds positively to those who respect themselves and their time. It’s a magnet for new opportunities, deeper relationships, and a sense of inner peace that is priceless.
