Imagine being on a plane and overhearing a conversation that literally changed your life. 

This happened to social scientist and Harvard Professor Arthur Brooks. The overheard words of the much older, deeply unfulfilled man seated behind him struck Brooks after the plane landed and the lights turned on. “He stood up and I recognized him as someone who was really quite prominent, and who had done a lot with his life, and I thought to myself, what’s he doing wrong?”

Brooks discovered the second half of life is different from the first half. He managed his time to do what he calls “me-search” rather than research. His book, From Strength to Strength, reveals his discoveries. 

The lesson: time can unknowingly whiz by until reality jolts you to reassess your values and priorities. You can avoid that from happening. Hone your time-management skills to consciously choose what or who “earns'' your time, attention, and focus.

Below are six environment strategies that support building the skill of time-management:

1. Eliminate or reduce distractions and “noise.” Do one thing at a time.

2. Change, adjust, or improve your surroundings to support the way you learn. 

3. Make the “right” actions easy. Keep materials within reach, in your vision field, or easy to find.

4. Set reminders. Book a routine appointment with yourself to review your values and priorities.

5. Ask for what you need or want. Discuss with others about what you need to succeed. 

6. Get support: reach out! I’m here to support you.