When time is viewed as a non-renewable resource it often becomes easier to understand the importance of managing it wisely. As with any resource, there is a direct relationship between the supply of, and the demand for, that resource.
When there is an overabundance of time, it is more easily wasted. Likewise, when there is a shortage of the resource – in this case, of time – it becomes necessary to more effectively manage even the smallest amount of it.
Beginning to effectively manage time often begins with a change in perspective regarding time. Each day provides only a specific number of hours, minutes and seconds, in which to accomplish goals, and complete tasks.
When working under a deadline, then, every minute or hour is considered a resource which one could feasibly use to the full extent, in order to meet a specific goal. The resource is non-renewable. Each moment or hour that is used up is a percentage of a resource which will not be replenished.
When there is a shortage of any resource it becomes important to closely monitor its uses. Consider the response to a shortage of water. Certain activities are eliminated from use, such as watering plants, whenever there is a state of draught.
Limited activities make the most use of the resources available. The individual undertaking a time management program then, will need to learn to identify the ways in which even the smallest amount of time is wasted, as well as to carefully oversee their own limited supply of this valuable resource.