Summary of "How to gain control of your free time | Laura Vanderkam | TED"

Key Wellness Strategies, Self-Care Techniques, and Productivity Tips from Laura Vanderkam’s TED Talk

Rethink Time Management

Instead of trying to save small bits of time here and there, focus on building the life you want first. When priorities are clear, time naturally stretches to accommodate them.

Treat Priorities Like Emergencies

Just as people find time to deal with urgent crises (e.g., a broken water heater), treat your priorities with the same urgency and importance.

Use Priority-Based Language

Replace “I don’t have time” with “It’s not a priority.” This mindset shift clarifies that time is a choice and helps you focus on what truly matters.

Define Your Priorities Clearly

Professional: Write a “future performance review” imagining your ideal accomplishments for the next year. Identify 3-5 key achievements you want to reach.
Personal: Write a “future family holiday letter” describing 3-5 meaningful things you and your loved ones did during the year.

Break Goals into Manageable Steps

For example: - If you want to write a family history, start by reading other histories, then plan interviews with relatives. - If you want to run a 5K, find a race, sign up, and create a training plan.

Schedule Priorities First

Plan your week ahead of time (Friday afternoons recommended) by making a short priority list in three categories: - Career - Relationships - Self

Then, intentionally block out time for these priorities in your calendar.

Recognize the Abundance of Time

There are 168 hours in a week. Even after work and sleep, many hours remain for other activities: - 40-hour workweek + 56 hours sleep = 72 hours free - 50-hour workweek = 62 hours free - 60-hour workweek = 52 hours free

This shows that time is available for what matters, even for busy people.

Use Small Time Slots for Joy and Self-Care

Instead of defaulting to phones or TV during small breaks, use these moments for: - Reading something enjoyable - Meditating or praying - Having meaningful family meals (e.g., breakfast instead of dinner if schedules are tight)