Take Control of Your time Before Others Do!

Ever noticed how some people think your calendar is really just their suggestion box? You sit down for five quiet minutes with a coffee, and suddenly someone’s on the phone asking if you’re free right now to help them move house, babysit their dog, or attend a three-hour meeting that could have been an email. If you don’t take control of your time, you can be sure someone else will happily do it for you.

The truth is, the world is demanding and people can be demanding. They want our time, our energy, and our attention — often at the very moment it suits them. And unless we learn to manage our schedules, we’ll be left reacting rather than living intentionally.

The simplest way I’ve found to keep control is to diarise everything. Not just work meetings, but meals, family time, exercise, reading, prayer, shopping, even down time. If your diary allows, colour-code everything. The colour coding allows me to see the weekly or monthly view at a glance and know what's coming up. Also, when someone calls to slot in a meeting or catch-up, I can easily check if it fits. If it doesn’t, I don’t have to give an excuse or explain myself — I can simply say, “I already have an appointment.” People respect that. They don’t need to know the appointment is with my running shoes or a good book.

At the start of each week, I spend a little time scheduling everything I know is coming up. Each morning, I re-check and adjust as needed. This rhythm means I’m in control of my days, not constantly reacting to demands.

It’s not about being selfish; it’s about being wise. When you protect your time, you have more energy, focus, and joy to give — on your terms.

What's your rythm for taking control of your time? Leave a comment below or reach out to me esa@coachesa.com.au