168 Hours: You Have More Time Than You Think by Laura Vanderkam

Summary

"168 Hours: You Have More Time Than You Think" by Laura Vanderkam challenges the common perception that we are always busy and never have time for what really matters. By breaking down the week into 168 hours, Vanderkam argues that most people have more free time than they realize. She shares strategies for prioritizing tasks, aligning time use with core values, and intentionally designing a fulfilling life. Through real-life stories and productivity tips, the book empowers readers to reclaim control over their schedules and focus on what is truly important.

Life-Changing Lessons

1. Track your time: Knowing exactly how you spend your hours each week is the first step in making meaningful changes to your schedule.

2. Focus on core competencies: Spend more time doing activities you’re uniquely skilled at or that greatly contribute to your personal or professional goals.

3. Outsource or minimize nonessential tasks: By delegating chores or less important work, you free up time for pursuits that truly matter.

Publishing year and rating

The book was published in: 2010

AI Rating (from 0 to 100): 88

Practical Examples

1. Time Tracking

   Vanderkam suggests that readers track their daily activities for a week to get a realistic picture of how they spend their time. This tracking helps illuminate inefficiencies and time-wasters, such as excessive email checking or social media scrolling, that add up over the week. With accurate data, readers can make informed decisions about what to cut or change.

2. Prioritize Core Competencies

   She encourages identifying your 'core competencies'—the tasks you do best and that bring the most value either at work or in personal life. By focusing more of your available hours on these areas, you can increase your impact and satisfaction. This involves both saying no to things outside your core and proactively seeking ways to enhance your best skills.

3. Batch Similar Tasks

   Grouping similar tasks together, such as running all errands in one trip or setting aside specific times for answering emails, boosts efficiency. Vanderkam argues that batch processing cuts down on context switching, helps maintain focus, and reduces the time lost to transitioning between different activities.

4. Outsource or Delegate

   Instead of trying to do everything, Vanderkam suggests outsourcing tasks like grocery shopping, cleaning, or administrative work when possible. Delegating low-priority or non-core tasks creates more room in your schedule for higher-value activities. This is especially useful for busy parents or professionals struggling to balance work and personal life.

5. Use Transition Times Strategically

   Small pockets of time—like commuting, waiting in line, or during school pickups—can add up over the week. Vanderkam recommends using these moments for meaningful activities, such as listening to audiobooks or making quick phone calls, turning idle time into opportunities for learning or connection.

6. Plan Leisure Time

   She advocates for consciously scheduling enjoyable activities rather than leaving leisure time to chance. Making plans for fun, whether it’s a date night or a hobby session, increases the odds of these events happening and adds fulfillment to your week.

7. Set Ambitious Yet Achievable Goals

   Vanderkam stresses the importance of setting clear, motivating goals that push you but remain realistic. By regularly reviewing and pursuing such goals, you can align your time and efforts with your deepest aspirations, instead of getting lost in the everyday grind.