What does the expression 'time management' really mean? In considering that no one can ever hold time back or force it on or even attempt to make it stand still, the expression is really a misnomer. No one can manage time; it is impossible to manage something over which you have no control whatever. You just cannot win.

Can you imagine what utter confusion there would be if we all had the ability to organize time to suit ourselves? Think of this, there would be no use for clocks and time would never be synchronized. Worst of all, who would determine whether it is early or late? Thank Goodness, time is common to all and must be used as it passes. We can control our clocks and set them to whatever hour we wish, but that does not have any effect whatever on dear 'father time.'

It would be much more appropriate to make good use of passing time if we learn to manage ourselves. We must not think in terms of time management. Time waits on no one, so organize your life so that you will not be left behind. Adjust your schedule of work through self improvement, set appropriate goals and try to work within a specified time frame as time passes.

In today's fast moving pace, you had better be able to adjust yourself to keep up with what's going on around you. The successful people have all learned how to make use of the time afforded them. They are the ones who have succeeded in business or sport or whatever they had set their minds to until they became achievers. If they had attempted to manage time instead of working toward their goal and making use of time as it passed, they would never have reached the pinnacle of their ambition.

You can become highly productive if you identify the areas in which you need to focus your attention, do some goal setting, and conduct yourself in the manner appropriate for your success. You must decide on how long you intend to spend on a certain project and make every effort to stick to your decision. Be prepared to abide by your own rules.

Too often we set goals and make resolutions that we never even attempt to bring to fruition. During our negligence, time marches on.

You must awake and arise, put on your running shoes and do your utmost to be on time by organising the things that are necessary to bring about your desired result. Do not try to finish the race before you even begin. Forget about time management; do not even consider competing with time; it is ageless, it never gets tired and when you are old and decrepit, time will still be marching on.

Keep in mind that to make the best use of your hours, you must learn the management of yourself. Self management is a lifelong challenge; when you cease to do this, you cease to be productive.

You must know what you really want and do all you can to change your habits. Assess yourself honestly and you will be amazed at the traits you discover. Then make every effort to make the changes you think necessary for your success. If you cannot make a clean break, do it in stages and keep focussed on your goals.

A word of caution, do not discuss this with anyone. Do not expect them to sympathize with you or give you encouragement. All you will get is criticism. This is your own little secret; keep it that way and be determined to continue to make the change in your life. Others will see the change in you soon enough.

You will get much more done in much less time because instead of fighting a losing battle with time management, you will be exercising personal management as you learn how to organise yourself.