Too Much Wasted Time? 5 Steps to Take Control of Your Life

Stop Wasting Time

I love wasting time.  As a matter of fact, I have spent a chunk of about 3 years wasting time at one point in my life.  Here is the sad part.  I show no income from those 3 years because I was spending time doing what I wanted.  In addition, I spent money during that time.  

When you add it all up, just on the monetary side of it, I spent about $80k each year and I was making $0 those 3 years, so $80k x 3 is $240,000.  Now, if my income would have matched what I spent, then I need to double this number.  So, $240,000 times 2 equals $480,000. 

Whoa!  So, my 3 years off I actually lost almost half a million dollars.  That doesn’t even count the lost interest on the money and investments.  And, I am only talking here about the lost money.

What does wasted time do for your psyche?  Honestly, it starts making you doubt yourself and makes you talk negatively to yourself. It can have everlasting emotional ramifications. It can cause you to delay making decisions, procrastinate, and really just stop achieving. But! There is help.

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Does Wasted Time equal a Wasted Life?

If you enjoy having time to yourself, that’s one thing. But if you find yourself constantly distracted, procrastinating, or stuck in meaningless activities, you might be wasting more than just time—you might be wasting your life.

Ever heard the saying, “Idle hands are the devil’s playground”? When we lack direction, we become vulnerable to stress, anxiety, and even a loss of purpose. But here’s the good news: You have the power to take control of your time and use it for something greater.

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Motivation vs. Inspiration: Why It Matters

What motivates you? What inspires you? These two forces shape how you use your time.

• Motivation is often tied to immediate responsibilities—getting ready for work, showing up for commitments, or meeting deadlines.
• Inspiration runs deeper. It’s what fuels your long-term vision, whether it’s raising strong children, building a meaningful career, or growing spiritually.

If you’re struggling with time management, it’s worth asking: Are you just going through the motions, or are you truly inspired by the life you’re building?

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“The tragedy of life is not found in failure but complacency. Not in you doing too much, but doing too little. Not in you living above your means, but below your capacity. It’s not failure but aiming too low, that is life’s greatest tragedy.” – Benjamin E. Mays

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Find Your Inspired Vision

Imagine it’s one year from now. You are exactly where you want to be. What does that look like?

Take a moment to write it down. Describe it as vividly as possible—where you are, what you see, who you’re with. Why? Because writing it down turns your dream into a vision, and a vision becomes a roadmap.If you need help getting started, my printable Time Management Guide is designed to help you clarify your goals and take action.

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Wasting Time vs. Resting with Purpose

There’s nothing wrong with taking breaks. In fact, rest is essential! But excessive time-wasting leads to boredom, frustration, and even a sense of worthlessness.The key is intentionality—learning to manage your time wisely while also allowing space for renewal. If you struggle with mental clutter, my printable Renew the Mind Bundle can help you refocus on what truly matters.

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Your Next Steps: Stop Wasting Time and Take Action

1. Write Your Vision – Grab a journal (or your phone) and describe where you want to be one year from now.
2. Align Your Actions – Does your daily routine reflect your vision? If not, make adjustments.
3. Be Intentional – Plan your days, set priorities, and use tools like my printable Time Management Guide to stay on track.
4. Renew Your Mind – If self-doubt or overwhelm is holding you back, dive into the printable Renew the Mind Bundle for biblical strategies to overcome limiting beliefs.
5. Take Small Steps Daily – Progress isn’t about perfection—it’s about consistent, faith-driven action.

Your time is a gift. Use it wisely, and watch how your life transforms.

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Want more encouragement? Check out my latest blog post: 5 Ways to a New You This January

Let’s build a life worth living—together! Share your thoughts in the comments below.

So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?” – Hebrews 13:6