For many of us, there’s a gap between the compass and the clock, that is, between what’s deeply important to us and how we spend our time. And this gap is not closed by traditional time management approach of doing more things faster. In fact, many of us find that increasing our speed only makes things worse.

There is a huge difference between making daily decisions based on the clock versus making daily decisions based on the compass.

The clock represents what we do and how we manage our time. Things like schedules, goals, meetings, items that generally get written on to-do lists: that’s what we call “clock” items.

The compass, in contrast, describes what is most important and valued in our individual lives. The compass represents our specific calling, values, vision, most cherished relationships, principles, and mission in life. It embodies the core reason and meaning of our existence.

Much of the difficulty and angst in modern life is a result of making daily life decisions based on clock items when we should be making daily life decisions based on compass guidelines. Those feelings at the end of a long day, wondering “I did all the stuff on my to do list, but I can’t believe that’s all there is”  is a problem of clock versus compass orientation.

Every time we don’t put first things first, when we fail to follow our calling and vocation and focus on the most important things in life, our conscience warns us that something’s not right and corrective measures and proactive actions are required.

Things that matter most must never be at the mercy of things that matter least.

Summing-up:  Before one can truly manage time (the clock), it is important to know where you are going, what your priorities and goals are, in which direction you are headed (the compass). Where you are   headed is more important than how fast you are going. Rather than always focusing on what’s urgent, learn to focus on what is really important.