Money can’t buy your time

By Kia Jarmon of MEPR Agency for 12th & Broad

On the heels of celebrating my first Mother’s Day, I found myself reflecting over the last nine months with my son. How exciting it is to take off when he is sick, how I can check on him at school during the day, or how our morning giggles aren’t cut short because of 7am traffic. I honor my journey as an entrepreneur because it has gifted me these moments.

As a young, early 20’s entrepreneur I found myself repeating the saying “time is money” with an attitude when someone was late for a meeting or didn’t show up altogether. But several years ago I realized that some clichés just aren’t worth repeating. Well, because they just aren’t true. After having my son my theory was put to the test. Time and money are not equal. They aren’t even close cousins. 

The reality is that I can always make more money. I can always find another project to work on, book another speaking opportunity, or coach another entrepreneur. But I can never get back the time that I miss with my son. Money can’t buy that time back. And quite honestly the money offered, can be nice, but it doesn’t sweeten the pot when it comes to being with my son.

But you don’t have to be an entrepreneur or a mother to recognize this cliché as farce.

As an example, when employers are looking to hire millennials I always share “think beyond the money!” Offering an office with a view, flexible work schedule, extended vacation time, or a culture that encourages bringing your family or pets to work can often be a win.

The offer of more money tries to hold you captive to saying yes. I recently watched a show on Hulu and one of the characters was sharing how he saves his money because it gives him an opportunity to say no to opportunities that don’t make sense. I like to think I have adopted a similar disposition. When I make money, it has to be good so that I can walk away from things that take away from my time with my son.

 So, while you may still enjoy the finger pop and neck roll that comes after saying “my time is money.” Consider a different perspective. Money gives you the ability to buy things; time gives you the ability to experience priceless moments.

Cheers to understanding money can buy things not moments.