The Philosophy of Time Management | Brad Aeon | TEDxConcordia

Summary

This script explores the philosophical roots of time management, questioning the modern approach that emphasizes productivity over meaningful living. It challenges the notion of 'time is money,' suggesting that valuing time this way cheapens its true worth. The speaker encourages embracing philosophy to ask deeper questions about how we spend our time, advocating for a mindful approach to living that acknowledges our mortality and the sacrifices we must make to lead meaningful lives.

Takeaways

• 📝 The speaker began with a personal story of realizing mortality at a young age, which sparked a lifelong interest in the value of time.
• 🤔 The script emphasizes the importance of asking philosophical questions about time, such as why we work and what gives our lives meaning.
• 📚 It critiques modern time management practices for being technique-focused rather than rooted in philosophical inquiry about living meaningfully.
• ⏰ The concept of time as money is challenged, with the argument that it devalues our time and leads to a more stressful and less fulfilling life.
• 💰 The script suggests that viewing time as money can lead to greed and a lack of consideration for others or the environment.
• 💡 Roman philosopher Seneca's view is cited, suggesting that valuing time as money is undervaluing it, especially when considering our mortality.
• 🤷‍♂️ The speaker reflects on the idea that we may say we 'don't have time' as a way to avoid making choices and facing their consequences.
• 👵 The script contrasts the time constraints of our great-grandparents with our modern perception of time scarcity, despite having more freedom and flexibility.
• 🤝 It points out that our time management choices have societal implications, affecting everything from voting to social connections.
• 🧐 The importance of self-reflection on time allocation is highlighted, encouraging us to question whether we are making excuses or sacrifices.
• 💬 The speaker concludes by advocating for a philosophical approach to time management, which involves continuous questioning and meaningful choices.

Q & A

What is the main fear the speaker had when they were six years old?

The main fear the speaker had when they were six years old was the fear of getting bored.

What realization did the speaker have after watching a documentary on sea turtles?

The speaker realized that sea turtles can live up to 150 years, which led them to the realization of their own mortality and the mortality of everyone around them.

Why did the speaker's mother say that the concept of death is something that cannot be changed?

The speaker's mother said that death is a natural part of life that is inevitable for everyone, and there is nothing one can do to change that fact.

What is the speaker's view on the modern time management movement?

The speaker views the modern time management movement as philosophically empty, focusing on productivity and efficiency rather than on the philosophical roots of making life meaningful.

What does the speaker suggest is the problem with equating time with money?

The speaker suggests that equating time with money leads to impatience, unhappiness, greed, and a decreased willingness to help others or consider the environment.

According to the speaker, what is the true value of time according to Roman philosopher Seneca?

According to Seneca, as mentioned by the speaker, if we think of time as money, we are actually valuing our time very cheaply.

What does the speaker believe is the fundamental question in philosophy that helps with time management?

The speaker believes that the fundamental question in philosophy that helps with time management is 'Why shouldn't I kill myself right now?' as it prompts reflection on what one truly values in life.

What is the speaker's opinion on the statement 'you can't manage time'?

The speaker disagrees with the statement 'you can't manage time,' arguing that time can indeed be managed, but it requires making choices and living with the consequences of those choices.

Why does the speaker argue that saying 'I don't have time' is a lie?

The speaker argues that saying 'I don't have time' is a lie because it is often an excuse to avoid making choices and taking responsibility for how one uses their time.

What does the speaker suggest is the consequence of not managing time meaningfully?

The speaker suggests that the consequence of not managing time meaningfully is a lack of fulfillment and potentially contributing to societal issues such as isolation and a lack of civic engagement.

What advice does the speaker give for managing time in a meaningful way?

The speaker advises embracing philosophy and continuously asking meaningful questions about how one uses their time, rather than focusing on tips, tricks, and shortcuts.