“Fill Time” to “Fill Minds”
When preparing for a speech or training session, many of us naturally ask, “How will I fill the time?” But a more impactful question is, “How will I fill the minds of my audience?”
When you are given time to present, think of it as an opportunity, not an obligation. The best use of your minutes is not in cluttering them with filler, but in enriching them with meaningful and uplifting content. The goal is to leave others informed, not bored. So, instead of focusing on how much time you have to fill, focus on how much value you can deliver in the time you’re given.
“Kill Time” to “Mine Time”
We’ve all experienced those pockets of “in-between” time—waiting at the doctor’s office, sitting on a flight, or standing in line with seemingly nothing to do. Too often we fall into the habit of “killing time,” scrolling mindlessly or just wishing it away. But what if instead, we mined that time for something worthwhile?
Those minutes can be treated as a new option. Use them to call a loved one, read a book, plan tomorrow, or even reflect on your life. When you mine your time, you extract value from moments that might otherwise be wasted. These small actions add up and can turn idle minutes into productive progress.
“Make Up for Lost Time” to “Make the Most of Present Time”
Have you ever thought, “I need to make up for lost time,” especially after a day that didn’t go as planned? But here’s the thing: the past is gone, and the future hasn’t arrived yet. The only time you truly control is the present moment.
Instead of dwelling on lost time, shift your focus to making the most of the present. Be aware of what wastes your time—whether it’s distractions, overcommitment, or procrastination—and take steps to guard against it. When you invest fully in the now, you create momentum and avoid the stress of “catching up.”
Ultimately, how we use our time shapes the quality of our lives.
Whenever I think about time, I’m reminded of this guiding principle: Fear nothing but to waste the present moment. Moments are the building blocks of time, and when we treat each one with care, we’re not just making better use of our hours—we’re creating a life of purpose and fulfillment.
The secret is simple: positively fill the mines of others when you communicate, mine time for value, and treasure the present moment as the gift it truly is.
Mark Sanborn is an award-winning speaker and advisor to leaders. He is the Leadership Expert in Residence at High Point University, the Premier Life Skills University which challenges students to “choose to be extraordinary.” For more information about his work or to book him to speech, visit www.marksanborn.com.
