The Time You Have Is the Time You Need

Have you ever noticed that when you cram for an exam, somehow you manage to pull it off? Or when you need to solve a tough issue, you prioritize and find a solution faster than expected? 

This is a powerful way to think about time: Judge how long something will take based on the time you can give it, not how long it took someone else. We tend to adapt and rise to the challenge when necessary. 

Problems that rely on mental effort, strategic thinking, or decision-making can often be compressed into a shorter time frame. Examples include completing work projects under tight deadlines, solving complex problems, or handling a personal crisis. When urgency hits, we focus, cut distractions, and get it done. 

But not every challenge fits this approach. Some challenges have fixed timelines, like physical processes that require time. Having a baby, growing a garden, or waiting for a contract to be approved—these things simply can’t be rushed. They require time and patience. 

Understanding which challenges can be accelerated and which require time is key. For most mental and work-related challenges, this mindset can help you get more done faster. It’s a smart way to approach both work and life, giving you an edge to succeed where time is short.