“Play keeps us happy and agile, in mind and muscle; sleep and good meals keep us alive.”— Birch, Aspects by John M. Ford
In today’s world, it’s easy to believe we’re wasting time. We’re constantly baited into distractions—social media measuring our worth through comparisons of performance, intelligence, and success; roles and responsibilities defining our utility, often making us forget that utility itself is a matter of perspective and personal choice.
But true progress isn’t just about relentless work. It’s not about shutting down completely so you can “earn” your next round of productivity. Progress is about balance—about engaging with different states of being. When we embrace that, we realize something radical: it’s actually incredibly difficult to waste time.
Look at high performers and athletes who intentionally incorporate play and structured rest into their routines. Why? Because if success were purely about utility, work would be robotic—sequenced, scripted, devoid of creativity. But that’s not how humans operate. We need critical thinking and adaptability, things no comprehensive manual can provide.
And yet, rest is often treated like a waste of time. But rest is as essential for growth as light is for knowing darkness—one defines the other. Without recovery, there is no performance. Without play, there is no agility of mind or body.
So let’s reconsider “wasting time.” What if it doesn’t exist? Rest serves a purpose. Time with friends serves a purpose. Work and service have purpose. The real question is: to what purpose?
Are you scrolling social media with intention—learning, connecting, growing? Great. If not, is it truly serving you?
Are you watching Friends for the third time? If it actually helps you relax, fantastic. Could there be better ways? Maybe—but it’s about what works for you.
The key isn’t to fear wasting time—it’s to understand how you use it. Choice prevents waste.
So here’s my challenge to you: What’s something you always thought was a waste of time, but now you might see as essential to your balance?
