How to Age Successfully: Making the Most of Later Years

So you got old. Congratulations! 

No one knows all of the secrets about how to age successfully. Making the most of later years can represent a challenge to many seniors. 

Again, so you got old. Congratulations!

Was that not what you worked towards for your entire life? Did you not plan to grow old? Did you not try to do everything you could possibly do to ensure longevity?

Now you are old and you are not happy about it, or are you? This is the dilemma that a lot of senior citizens are confronted with as they age. Part of their disillusionment has to do with their original expectations about old age. You might ask yourself, what you expected to happen when you achieved your goal of getting old. 

By old, for some that could mean 50 years of age or 65 years of age. For others, it could be 80 or 100 years of age, or maybe even more.

Consider the alternative.

There are people who state that because one or both of their parents died young, they will die young, too and so, they do not plan on getting old, at all. In fact, they do not want to get old, because they feel that there are too many problems and other issues associated with old age. They live their lives accordingly, not planning for their old age.

Some folks don't want to be forced to have someone care for them, when they are old, or they feel that no one will be there to love them or care for them, so they prefer to die young or say they do. Whether they mean that or not remains to be seen.

The reality is this. No one really knows how old they will be when they die. But the majority of people, do not want to die young. They do not want to die, at all. Many want to live forever. They love life. They will alter every aspect of their lives or their life styles, if necessary and seek to make the necessary changes in their lives to ensure that they will live long, healthy and prosperous lives.

There are those who live their lives based purely upon a pleasure principle, living only for the moment, enjoying all of the vices that they can, because they feel that they only live once and they might as well enjoy their lives while they can, in whatever way they wish to do so, at that particular moment in time.

Sometimes their focus on the pleasure principle is so selfish and strong, that it does not matter to them who they take to the grave with them, other family members, friends or even children. Often, this reality is linked to addiction to alcohol, nicotine or drugs. They become increasingly aggressive and abusive because of the addiction factor in their lives.

There are those who know that due to circumstances beyond their control, usually health related issues or concerns, that they will die young, even though they would fight to stay alive, right to the last moment.

It appears that there are those who want to live to old age, those who don't want to live to old age, those who would if they could and those who won't because they refuse or fail to do that which would ensure longevity.

Growing old can be a wonderful thing or it can be a horrible nightmare. So much depends upon one's own attitude towards having a long life. No one can prevent things like war, accidents, floods, plagues, tornadoes, hurricanes, earth quakes or other natural disasters.

No one can determine in our era, what genetic factors would guarantee a long life or how genes can be altered to change one's life expectations. That may be possible in the future.

What we can do is to value life as sacred and live our own lives well. We can treat others as though their lives are sacred, too.

You got old? Congratulations because you have succeeded in achieving one of your goals. Many people will die untimely deaths, sometimes through no fault of their own. They may never achieve any of their goals. A lot of people have never even set any goals in terms of life expectancy.

Remember that your life is a unique gift that has been given to you. Use your time and your years wisely. Enjoy life and help others to enjoy theirs, too. Make the most of those later years, because they will come and go very quickly. Love life and live it well.

Again, congratulations!

Facing Discrimination in the Work Place

Judgment: One nugget of gold for baby boomers

You might just want to read this if you are a baby boomer facing age discrimination in the work place.

"Your judgment is questionable," is a new, age discriminatory phrase or transition of terminology tactic, that is beginning to create a serious problem for baby boomers everywhere who are currently employed or seeking employment.

Baby boomers are the people who were born within the first ten to fifteen years after World War 11 ended. The world returned to a time of relative peace, with a major focus on families and family values. Thus, there were many children born all over the world, during that time.

In the year 2008, baby boomers fit into a unique age bracket, from not quite fifty years of age to not quite sixty five.

Many of the baby boomers are currently employed and want to be stay employed. Others are searching for new jobs, for many different reasons. A lot of them do not want to go into full retirement or early retirement and yet thousands of baby boomers are being forced to do just that.

Many people in this age range do not look or feel old. On the job, no one knows, cares or takes interest in how old the baby boomers are, as they do not appear or act any differently, than the majority of the younger employees heading into middle age. Many baby boomers are young for their ages, as the direct result of good health care and having focused on living well-balanced lives, free of negative or destructive vices like excessive use of alcohol and smoking.

Of course, this is not true for everyone in this category, but some people always tend to feel and act old, no matter what age they are and only live for the pleasure of the moment or for their retirement. People can be old, at any age. These are not the people who need to read this article. (Let them vegetate and retire in their own way, in peace.)

This article may prove to be one nugget, in a bucket of many nuggets of gold, intended only for the serious baby boomers who are still active and who want to remain active and desire to live their lives, more fully.

The vast majority of baby boomers want to remain employed and to stay active, for as long as possible. As a majority, they have focused on living full and happy lives and they enjoy every day of their lives, no matter what they kind of work they do or may have done in the past.

Many of them are legitimately employed and will work every possible hour or day that they are physically, mentally and emotionally able to do so. They know how to work, in contrast to younger employees, who have never learned any proper kind of work ethics and never will. (Of course, this does not include every young person, as many young people are serious about their work and have high standards in terms of work ethics.)

The problem in a nut shell lies in the reality that many of the baby boomers are gradually being phased-out and are not being allowed to work.

Baby boomers are starting to be regarded as being too old, both by employers and their younger compatriots or fellow employees. As a result, many baby boomers are being forced into premature or early retirement, whether they wish to retire or not, because of their age.

"Over fifty? Not employable! Out the door!" That is the final judgment call.

But, age discrimination is not acceptable or allowed in terms of employment law criterion.

The word age has been given a new face, another mask, a new label, ie. judgment or even more demeaning to an employee or potential employee, the label of having questionable judgment.

Is this just the new adage relating to competition? To that, one must reply, of course that is part of it. Let's face it. Jobs are scarce in many fields and technological advances have resulted in thousands of job losses, on a global level of employment.

Who gets the remaining jobs? The young employees will be the ones who gradually take over the job markets, in every country of the world. Such is the nature of employment.

Is this because of competition? There is competition on the job, every job. There always has and will be. The younger generations will fight for jobs, just like they always have and they will get the majority of the jobs. It is not as if they should not be entitled to employment, as they should be getting training for employment, particularly if they are not working already.

"Your judgment is questionable," is a kick in the face, especially for someone who has been working for many years, particularly when his or her customary work standards have been so much higher than any of the expectations being realized on today's job market.

This is doubly humiliating for any employee, when that person knows that he or she has been doing an excellent job and has always done so. More than likely, that person, as an employee or potential employee, could and would still offer a high standard in terms of actual work ethics.

Impaired judgment is a serious issue and legitimate concern in terms of actual employment, but that is when it has to do with disease or illness, incapacitation, drug or alcohol abuse. That is not the kind of judgment that is referred to here. This is not referring to illnesses like Alzheimer's disease or dementia. Nor is this referring to judgment problems related to a physical or mental instability or disability of any kind.

One might suggest that everyone over fifty years of age has a judgment problem of some kind, but is that really true? No, it is not.

The current mis-use of the word judgment is a new, unrecognized discriminatory term or phrase, that is now being employed to humiliate and phase-out workers or potential workers, who are in the baby boomer generation.

It is a masked label being applied to baby boomers and it is being used as a phase-out or de-employment tactic that immediately labels people as unsuitable for employment or essentially unemployable, regardless of education, employment history, training in any capacity, or ability, simply because of their age. It is masked age discrimination.

Terminology has a way of changing over time, so baby boomers, be warned.

This label could apply to you. When you are told that your judgment is questionable, recognize that statement for what it is. This suggests that you are being told that you are being phased out because of your age (but in a more polite way.)

That statement means, to the employer who states it, that you are getting old and his or her preference is to hire someone who is younger.

If you question your own judgment that is one thing or if there have been situations where others challenge your judgment, that is a different situation. You may need to seek medical help or advice, if your physical or mental health is deteriorating. It may or may not be. More than likely you are just fine. You know your health status better than anyone else, other than perhaps your own doctor.

But when some total stranger, who may or may not be a potential employer, confronts you with the statement, "Your judgment is questionable," don't just hang your head and wear the jacket of humiliation to please him or her. Hand it right back and suggest to that person. "You are getting closer to retirement every day, too. This jacket does not fit me. How would you like to wear it?"

Discrimination by age, under any disguise, is not acceptable, when applied to baby boomers or anyone else.

Never forget this one nugget of gold for baby boomers. You may need to save it for a later date, if you don't spend it now. 

What is the old Biblical statement?

"Judge not lest ye be judged."

Remember that every single person in the work place, will face age discrimination, at some time in his or her life, not just the baby boomers.

Outdoor Exercise Safety: Fitness Exercise Tips

Bicycles and baby boomers

Outdoor exercise safety is a serious issue, particularly for baby boomers. The reality of all the new baby boomers suddenly appearing on the horizon, raises serious safety concerns with respect to outdoor exercise and the use of bicycles. Many of the baby boomers, or people born after World War II, are those who have always had the use of a vehicle. Now, many of them will seek to reduce the use of their vehicles and start to ride bicycles, for a number of different reasons including the following:.

Many baby boomer are reaching retirement and have more leisure time

Cycling is a really great way to get fresh air and exercise

The cost of gasoline is on the rise

Many baby boomers will be purchasing new bicycles; some will buy bicycles for the very first time. Others, may have older bicycles stored in their sheds or garages, but they may not have ridden them for many years. Some will go out and buy different bicycles, unlike any bicycle that they have ever purchased before.

Here are some tips for baby boomers on bicycles, for whatever reason.

Times have changed and so have bicycles. Take a good look at some of the new bicycles, on the market. You may be astounded at what you see. You  might find yourself saving up to buy a brand new bicycle, if you don't already own one. Remember how much fun that was? Maybe you have never had a bicycle with only hand brakes?

There is a whole other ball park out there now, in terms of bicycling rules and regulations. A lot has changed since you were biking, as a teenager or a child. It may be a good idea to do some research into this topic. Look into what the new regulations are for bikers in your city or town.

You can still ride a bicycle, even if you have not ridden one for many years, . but you may be fearful about trying to do so. Face your fear head on and go for it, even if you are afraid. You will find that your instincts take over and you will do just fine.

There are a lot of other baby boomers, who will feel the same way. Don't panic with them. Take them out with you and assure them that if you can do it, they can do it too. The only way to find out if you can still ride a bicycle is to try.

You may or may not be physically fit, in terms of being able to ride a bike, so check with your doctor first, before you take on any major bicycling expeditions. Find out what your limitations should be for your age and physical ability. Try going out a few times on short excursions, before you take off on any long trips on your bicycle.

If you find a bicycle that is a good height for you, it is a lot easier to ride. Try out a few and see which model is best suited for your body build. As a baby boomer, you might be happy with a mountain bike that rides low enough for you to put your feet on the ground. Others prefer a higher bicycle. It is a matter of preference, but it also depends on what you plan to use your bike for, ie. distance, or just exploring your immediate world.

Weather is important when you go out riding on your bicycle, so dress accordingly. You do not want to be too cold or too hot. Make sure that you keep your hands and feet warm, too. Remember that your circulation changes as you get older.

Be careful the first couple of times that you are out on your bicycle, as you will be so busy trying to remember how to bicycle, that you may forget about other concerns, like slippery spots because of mud or black ice on the road, pets, traffic and people on walking trails.

Purchase a good helmet, as head injuries can occur when you are bicycling. You may save yourself and others future problems, if you are wearing a good helmet and don't sustain a head injury. In your area, helmets may be mandatory. Find out about that and do some serious shopping. You may also want to obtain some safety glasses.

Make certain that you know where you are going on your bicycle, as you may wind up getting lost. Draw a map and take it with you, if you are uncertain. Make certain that you adhere to it, as you can get turned around easily and wind up miles away from home. Sometimes it is a good idea to take someone with you, who knows the area. When in doubt, ask someone in the immediate area.

Make certain that you take water with you or another drink, as you may need it. It never hurts to take along a snack or hard candy, just in case. There are small back packs on the market, that will hold a thermos or your lunch. There are different kinds of bottles for bicycles. You might wish to invest in one of those. 

Purchase a small one, even pocket size or a bit larger until you determine how many ounces you need to take on an outing.

If your bike is not working right, you may wind up pushing it home, so be prepared to take along a bicycle repair kit with a few tools, especially if you plan on a long bike trip. Check your bicycle for problems and make certain that your tires are inflated to the correct pressure. It is a good idea to have reflectors on your bike and a mirror.

Keep your pant legs from getting caught in the chain, by either tucking them into your socks, wearing shorts or cutoffs. Keep an eye on your bike chain. It never hurts to have a spare one on a long trip, just in case it breaks.

It is easier to bicycle with the wind at your back, than it is if the wind is in your face, so plan your route accordingly. Wear a hoodie to protect your ears. A nylon one that is lightweight is a good investment and will last for years. You can always tie it around your waist, if it is too hot to wear it.

Find out where the local bike trails are and if you are not certain, ask some of the other cyclists, youngsters or teenagers in your area. They will more than likely know.

Find a biking partner and enjoy quality time together in the fresh air. Make it a fun day together.

Take along a small first aid kit, just in case you sustain an injury or you find someone else, who has fallen off his or her bike. It never hurts to take along a small ice pack either.

Following these tips, will help you to eliminate potential problems that you or any other any baby boomers might encounter. You might have your own list of other tips that you can add to it and pass along to others.

Enjoy your outdoor exercise and stay safe while you are biking.

How to Maintain Good Overall Health

Baby boomer quick tips: for weight management

Our new generation of baby boomers is growing rapidly and many people in this age bracket are already, or will be experiencing problems with weight management, for many different reasons.

First, define the term baby boomer.

It will be used to refer to those people who were born in the first ten to fifteen years after World War 11, a time of peace, when there were many babies being born all around the world and there was a new focus on family values.

Now, the baby boomers are rapidly becoming the new, senior citizens.

In terms of weight management for baby boomers and others, here are some potential problems with possible solutions.

Problem:

As I get older, my metabolism seems to be slowing down and as a result, my weight seems to be skyrocketing. What can I do?

Solution:

It is normal for one's metabolism to slow down as one ages, but that does not mean that your life has to be governed by excess weight. First, have a physical examination by your doctor, to see if there are any health related issues like a thyroid problems or a lack of iron, which may need to be dealt with, medically. Hopefully, you are healthy. If that is the case, the next step is to start looking closely at your diet and exercise regime. Ask yourself if you have ever done that seriously. If not, this is a good time to start. Try keeping a notebook.

Problem: 

When looking at my diet, I may be eating too much.

Solution: 

Recognizing that you are over eating is a major factor in weight control. First, cut down the portion size that you serve yourself and others. You may find out that you are satisfied with half the amount that you are eating or less. You may try to use smaller plates and cups. Make certain that you are serving yourself good quality, nutritious food and not junk food. Serve your food in a way that is pleasing to the eye. Guess what. No one is going to notice if you don't clean your plate. Keep a record of what you eat and when. You might find that you are eating out of boredom, rather than because your body wants food. Find something else that excites you, other than food. If you don't buy junk food, you won't eat much of it. More than likely you will not walk to the store to buy it. Don't put one more mouthful into your mouth when your body tells you that you are full. You don't need it.

Problem: 

I really want to do more in terms of physical exercise, but I find that I am tiring more easily now.

Solution: 

If you have never done much in terms of physical exercise, trying to do a lot now or all of a sudden, may prove to be too much for you. It may be exhausting. If you have been doing some exercise on a regular basis over the years, it is easier to increase the amount that you do now. Here is one word of caution for those who want to increase their exercise levels. Increase your level of physical exercise gradually and do things that are appropriate for your height, weight and build. Find things that you enjoy doing and you will forget about how tired you feel. After a while, you may forget about being tired and find exercise is a challenge and fun.! Try carrying ten pounds of sugar everywhere you go for a day and you will realize how much less tired you feel when you lose that extra weight.

Problem: 

I find that I am discouraged and feeling depressed about my weight and exercise program, as it just does not seem to be working.

Solution: 

Being discouraged and feeling depressed about a new weight management and exercise program is not uncommon. Start by purchasing a scale. Begin to keep an accurate record of your weight. Document your exercise, as well. Be honest with yourself as your scale will tell the truth in the end! Begin to take a more positive attitude towards your life and reward yourself when you succeed. Don't use food as a reward. Instead, buy a new pair of jeans or a purse. Find a better pair of walking shoes or something that will encourage you to keep on exercising. Celebrate. Don't punish yourself if you have not succeeded. Every day is a new day, so start again.

Problem: 

My finances are changing as I get older and I feel that I deserve better after all of the years of hard work that I put in.

Solution: 

Baby boomers will be facing major financial issues, all over the world. There is the reality that in the more recent past, fewer children have been born. Many of them will not be able to support aging family members. 

Many of the pension programs are being eliminated or diminished for a variety of reason. Yes, you do deserve better. Many seniors have been able to put retirement packages together, but there are those who have not been able to do so for a variety of reasons. Now, is a good time to look seriously at your financial situation, but do it in a way that you can rectify potential problems that may occur down the road. Try contacting a financial adviser for possible recommendations. Look at what you have done in the past, but with an eye to the future and see what skills you can build on. Look seriously at what you planned for your future and see if you have met some of your goals. In terms of what you purchase, buy what you need, not just what you desire and that includes your groceries. Cutting back can be a lot easier if you recognize the reality that it will help you in terms of your weight management program.

Problem: 

My interests are changing and they are different that those of other baby boomers.

Solution: 

It would be strange if your interests did not change, over the years. Most people have many different interests and can find someone to relate to in terms of interest level and activity. Look at what you really like to do. What excites you? Can you get interested in a new field? Yes, you can and you should be open to new interests. Just taking a culinary course for the fun of it might be beneficial, in several ways. You will meet new people and learn how to cook healthy and nutritious meals, in a way you never expected. Try using some new herbs and spices and you may find that your food is more satisfying and you do not crave anything. Ever think about having your own organic garden? Not only is it environment friendly, it is going to yield good healthy food for your consumption. You will be amazed at how many others you find in your immediate area, who get excited about your new garden.

Taking all of these tips and adding to them will help you to adjust to your new baby boomer status. Enjoy the world around you and live life fully. Boast about being a baby boomer because that is what you are. Love it. 

Be aware of the fact that you are managing your weight; no longer is your weight managing you. This is only the beginning.

Reflections: On Aging

Boomers and busters: Similarities and differences

If you can suggest that baby boomers were born in the first ten to fifteen years, after World War II, you might also suggest that those people born in the ten to fifteen years prior to and during World War II, are a unique group of people. I will refer to them in this article as the busters.

In the year 2008 AD, it is a reality that there are now almost seventy million baby boomers in North America. Many of the group that came before them, ie. the busters, are still alive and well. Sure, they are aging, but the boomers are too.

Aren't we all?

The baby boomers as a whole, were born in a time of post-war prosperity, coming into a world of celebration and elation. Many of the busters lived through a time of serious hardship and depression, coupled with anger, frustration, fear and suspicion.

The baby boomers can relate to a time of fathers, uncles and grandfathers returning home from the war. The busters were sending their husbands, sons, brothers, uncles and fathers off to war, with the understanding that many of them might never return. Thousands of them left and did not come back. Some were declared missing. Others were buried in foreign countries and still others came home in body bags or makeshift coffins.

The female baby boomers experienced, a relative new freedom, in terms of gender roles. This is still happening today, but these roles have been changing over the years. The females from the buster's generation were locked into specific male and female roles, at least until the majority of men were sent to war and almost every task became one that a woman was allowed or forced to do.

Relatively few boomers suffered as a result of war injuries, in comparison to the thousands of busters, who were injured or became disabled during World War II.

Many of the boomers have had families of their own, but much smaller than those of the busters. The busters had large families, with the expectation and understanding, that their children would be able to assist or support them, in their old age. Thus, many of the busters are well supported, while the boomers face a new crisis on their new horizon of aging. In terms of numbers, there are few boomers who will be assisted or supported, by their children as they grow older.

Aging is not something to fear by a boomer or a buster. Aging can be a wonderful experience and should be for everyone. There are many new issues that the boomers will have to face head on and others that the older busters of today, will have to contend with.

What does all of this mean? Time will tell the tale. Boom or bust?

This is a reflection on aging, comparing and contrasting the baby boomer generation with the buster generation, with respect to similarities and differences.

Reflections: Aging in Modern America

The baby boomer reality: A major concern

The skyrocketing number of baby boomers or people born within the first ten to fifteen years after World War II, added to the huge numbers of senior citizens born prior to that time. This creates a major concern for modern America.

"Why is that a concern?" one might ask. "What is new or different now?"

Consider the following reasons:

Many baby boomers are already facing early retirement or retirement at age sixty five which is going to or is bringing about a decline in the work force.

The ratio of baby boomers to the younger generation, who will be expected to take care of them in the future, appears to be out of proportion. There is a far higher number of baby boomers than there is younger people.

With the advent of improved health and longevity, the number of years that baby boomers will require either short or long term care as they age, continues to rise.

Health care costs are already skyrocketing and are expected to continue to do so.

There are already major global concerns with respect to shortages, ie. oil, food and water.

The cost of living is skyrocketing everywhere.

Take a look at this scenario from a baby boomer's perspective and take these common sense factors into consideration, before anyone panics.

Many baby boomers do not see themselves as either wanting to or needing to retire early. Some baby boomers will remain employed for many years beyond retirement, if physically able and allowed to do so.

The baby boomers, who grew up in the post war years, learned a lot about survival that the younger generation has never needed to learn.

The majority of baby boomers, are realistic in terms of their short and long term expectations, because of the era in which they grew up.

While not all baby boomers are healthy, (but then not everyone else is either), a good majority have focused on staying healthy, as well as on living long and healthy lives, in a positive and constructive way.

It is the baby boomer generation and a lot of people prior to that time, who have been so successful in bringing about the technological, scientific, medical, as well as other advances that have made America what it is today.

Baby boomers, as well as others, have been seeking solutions to problems for many years. This is going to continue over time and many of the baby boomers will find their own answers and implement whatever changes are necessary for survival, through their own initiatives.

One must also ask "What baby boomers can do in order to ease the burden on the next generation?"

Why not begin to present the problem to the baby boomers and see what kind of answers they can come up with, after brainstorming together?

If you are a baby boomer, ask yourself "What can I do to avert a baby boomer crisis in the future?"

You might just be amazed at what your ideas might contribute to this aging with respect to modern America’s area of concern.

Time Management for Entrepreneurs

Timely tips on time management for baby boomer entrepreneurs

Developing time management skills is crucial for entrepreneurs and the success of entrepreneurial projects, regardless of where they are heading.

You, as an entrepreneur, are in control of your time whether you realize it or not! You have priorities, for example God, your spouse, your children, other family members or others. Maybe work is one of your major priorities. Perhaps it is a hobby of some kind.

Take a moment and look at what your priorities are, in the light of what they could be or should be. You can change your priorities, if you really desire to do so. Sometimes, it is a good idea to put your priorities in order.

You have exactly the same amount of time as everyone else in the entire world. What you choose to do with it, or how you allocate your time, will be a crucial factor in determining the final results of your entrepreneurial project.

It is a shock to realize that time is going to pass by, whether you choose to do something with it or not. Time will steal away a lot faster than you realize. All of a sudden, you may have to ask yourself, "Where has all the time gone? What did I do with it? What do I have to show for it?"

You, as an entrepreneur, can claim your time back. It is a valuable commodity and not intended to be wasted. Time is said to equal dollars. Make a practice of stating "This is my time!" Claim it back and then use it wisely. Do not waste it!

The proper allocation of your time is critical. How much time you are putting into your entrepreneurial project, may determine its ultimate success or failure. You can begin to budget your time right now, just like you budget your money. Learn to allocate a certain amount of time to accomplish one task and then, do the same with other tasks.

Look at how you spent your time today, in comparison with how you plan to spend it tomorrow or a week from tomorrow. Was your time used in a positive and constructive direction or in a negative and destructive direction? Make changes in the future accordingly, if you deem that be necessary.

Be realistic in terms of whether or not, you are a good judge of time. Do you tend to think in terms of minutes when doing something or is it in terms of hours? Do those hours fly by, while you think that it is only a few minutes that have passed?

Quite often conservation of time, results in conservation of energy, too. When time flies by, it is in minutes, hours, days, weeks, months and years. Look at your time in that light!

By saving time, you are going to save your energy too! Consider how much energy you have saved in any one period of time. Govern yourself accordingly and ask yourself what else you could do with that extra energy.

Look at all of the different kinds of time, for example, family time versus non-family time, leisure time versus non-leisure time and work time versus non-work time. Each one of these is important in your life, but are they in balance with each other? If not, that can be corrected.

Ask yourself, how much time you spend on rest and relaxation or sleeping. How many hours of sleep do you need to function at your best? Are you wasting all of your valuable time sleeping? Speak to your doctor about that, if this is the case.

Are dollars legislating your time or robbing you of valuable time? Improving money management skills can help you to save time. That time is valuable, so invest it in your entrepreneurial project. Ask yourself it you are a good time manager and if you realize that you may not be, seek advice from others, who you know are good time managers. Then follow their example.

Are you wasting time needlessly? Wasting time can be equated to wasting one's life. What is causing your time to be wasted?

Look at factors like fear and indecision. Are these acute or chronic problems, in your life and entrepreneurship? Perhaps you are bored and are wasting time because you are bored, rather than moving on to something higher, that presents an exciting new challenge for you. Look at all of the time that you are wasting and make changes accordingly.

Take a look at all of the time breakers, wreckers and destroyers in your life. Who or what is robbing you of all of your valuable time? Do you have continual good and bad interruptions? Are these people, pets, television programs or commercials, maybe telephone calls? How about telemarketing calls? You can begin to take control of these, once you realize that this is what is happening with your time.

Take a serious look your world every day and see if you have accomplished something that you intended to get accomplished. If not, ask yourself why not and change your future plans accordingly.

In other words, plan your days. They are yours to plan! Remember that if you think that you have time in a bottle that time is going to sail away, as if on a wave. Don't put your time in a bottle, toss it into an ocean and expect it to return to you either, because it may just disappear over the horizon.

Is time driving you and your entrepreneurial project or are you the one in the driver's seat? Is time driving you crazy? Remember that planning your time well, will save you time in the long run, but over-planning your time or being too exact in terms of a time frame, can become frustrating and ruin your time completely. Make certain that you do allow holiday time or travel time, because you deserve a reward, once in a while.

When you are setting a time frame for your entrepreneurial project, be realistic.

How long should it take? What can you do if you have over-extended that time frame? What other options do you have? If you have not met your own expectations, look seriously at why you did not meet them. 

Who, or what, is holding you and your project back? Does your completion date need to be adjusted? Is your actual job time appropriate for the remuneration that you will receive? Anything can be changed!

Remember above all else, that your time is precious, so are time management skills and so are you as an entrepreneur! Time management is important for entrepreneurs.