How we perceive time in work, matters

Why does it feel like you've never got enough time in work? [Trigger alert ⚠]

Because you choose not to.

I understand why that's hard to hear, but consider this...

Time is a choice, and you're always choosing how to spend it.

Organisationally, institutionally: how time is used, considered and empowered, e.g. 'not having enough time', is part of the collection of accepted norms that form our internal status quo.

Organisations, as structures, have needs, desires, rhythms and appetites, and they can be incredibly time-hungry, but these rhythms are what keep it going, what keep order, what drive purpose and meaning - organisations are organisms - they have a life of their own, literally.

So the beast gets fed - sometimes because it's the easiest thing to do. The instinctive thing.

The harder, the more deliberate but by far more effective and rewarding thing to do is: learn to choose differently.

Reconnect with your agency. As leaders, you are supremely positioned to do this.

If you need more time or for time to be 'different' - then chances are many people in your organisation also need this.

It takes a systemic response to slow our organisational clock; because the system of power that an organisation (organism) has to resist change is far greater than the individual power of single employees to really effect meaningful shifts in culture.

So, the change must come from the top and be experienced holistically throughout the organisation at every level: it takes operational implementation, rigour, clarity and discipline.

Only by choosing to do things differently can we slow down long enough to think more creatively, and consider how things could be different or better.

Time, and our institutional attitudes to it can form part of our organisational shadow. Only by bringing awareness to these aspects of our unconscious operating system can we effect meaningful and sustainable choice and change.

Find out more about the organisational shadow on my website. Check out Laura Vanderkam for more thoughts on time.

Speak to me if you want to work on the status quo in your organisation. Our culture consultancy services can help you examine the symptoms, recommend a prescription, and implement strategy and operational plans.