Counsels on Relationships
Counsel #14 — Time Well Spent
Picture: Counsel #14 — Time Well Spent CR 16.1
In any work or study environment, it’s important to be mindful of how you use your peers’ time. While a friendly conversation can lessen the stress of a heavy workload, excessive non-work or non-study chatter can become a distraction. CR 16.2
Interrupting others with unrelated topics may prevent them from completing their tasks, leading to frustration, lower productivity, and a less than desirable outcome. Instead, try to recognize when it’s an appropriate time to talk, like during breaks or after tasks are completed. Respecting boundaries shows consideration for others’ responsibilities, so if you notice a peer deeply focused on something, give them the space they need to work efficiently. Practicing self-awareness in conversations enhances your professionalism while allowing you to be intentional with your words and timing, contributing to a more productive and supportive workspace. God desires for us to be effective stewards of everything He’s gifted us with, so keep that in mind when discerning the best time to break someone else’s concentration while they’re studying, or working.7 CR 16.3
“A time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak…” Ecclesiastes 3:7 NIV CR 16.4
“It is the duty of every Christian to acquire habits of order, thoroughness, and dispatch.... Decide how long a time is required for a given task, and then bend every effort toward accomplishing the work in the given time.” Ellen White in Christian Service , p. 237 CR 16.5
Reflect: Do you respect others’ time in conversation? CR 16.6