I Don’t Have Time.”: What This Phrase Really Means

12 January 2025

It’s something we hear all the time. But what does it truly mean?

In reality, saying “I don’t have time” often masks a deeper truth:

  • “I’m not prioritizing this task.”
  • “I don’t see the importance or value of this project.”
  • “I feel overwhelmed and don’t know how to organize my priorities.”

Time is life. When someone tells you “I don’t have time,” it might also mean:

  • “I’m completely overloaded—I have no room for anything else.”
  • “You’re not my priority right now.”

As a leader or manager, how should you respond?

Instead of taking this phrase at face value, it’s crucial to dig deeper and support teams in managing their time more effectively by:

  • Redefining priorities.
  • Clarifying objectives and expectations.
  • Helping balance workloads for better efficiency and well-being.

Time is about choices and priorities. Helping your team structure them effectively can transform their productivity and overall satisfaction.

And you—how do you react when someone tells you, “I don’t have time”?


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How to say NO: Why is it so difficult and how do you go about it?

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