No one can say how much time one has in life, but we know that it is limited, it is only so much. Time structuring can improve our efficiency in using the time we have and the quality of our time with others.
Free Time
Free time is that time available to do what we want to do. Free time can be used productively or wasted. Productive uses of free time include resting, reading to learn, spending time with someone to build up a relationship or volunteering and thus contributing. Free time can be wasted as well. Common wastes of money include watching TV to excess, getting drunk or pursing an addiction.
Time Structuring in Transactional Analysis
Time structuring can be part of a schedule, but should include an emphasis of quality or productive activities over simply spending a lot of unproductive time with someone.
For example, a short time spent talking to someone is a productive activity.
Setting aside two hours to watch a game drinking beer and not communicating is not productive. Time structuring can identify activities that can be made more productive by including the other person.
Do you go for frequent walks? Invite your spouse to come along, turning exercise into time together. Does your spouse say you don’t spend enough time with them? Review your schedule. Are you working late to look good with the boss, despite the impact on your relationships? Leave work when the day is over and come home instead. Are you watching a lot of TV or spending more time on sports or hobbies than you thought?
Set aside specific times for both the tasks that you enjoy and the people that you love. If it is important, there should be an entry for it on your schedule – including your spouse. Setting up planned date nights shows that your partner is as important as work meetings, social gatherings and volunteer activities.
