Time Management: Prioritising What Really Matters After 50

I remember someone once saying, "You cannot save time, only spend it wisely." It’s true, the clock ticks for 24 hours every day, but it’s how we manage that time that really makes the difference.

Back in the 80s, I bought a book on stress survival (I've no idea why was I buying this book as a teenager?!) One chapter had a diagram of a clock split into three sections of 8 hours each: 8 hours for sleep, 8 hours for work, and 8 hours of free time. It was a very generalised view, of course. When I was working 12-hour shifts, commuting to London for 3 hours, I had just 9 hours left for sleep and free time. It was a tough way to live.

However, things changed for me when I started working locally, with a commute of just 10 minutes each way—it felt like winning the lottery! But that clock diagram stayed with me, as a reminder of how to manage my time each day. It’s a helpful framework to reflect on how you spend your time and where improvements can be made.

Time Management and Your Well-being

When you hit your 50s, things start to change, especially in your body. You can no longer do the same things you once did without feeling the effects. That’s why investing your time and energy into preventative measures now is so important. 

As women, many of us have spent decades putting others first: family, career, friends. But at this stage in life, prioritising your health is essential, not just to live longer but to live better. 

Understanding the Physical Changes You’re Facing

Once you reach menopause, your body undergoes significant changes. Oestrogen levels decline, and because oestrogen plays such a crucial role in many functions of the body, this can lead to a wide range of symptoms. The natural loss of muscle mass, bone density, and flexibility is common and, if left unaddressed, can result in reduced mobility, joint pain, and an increased risk of injury.

While we can't stop the ageing process (or menopause), we can slow it down. By focusing on key areas of health, you can stay strong, resilient, and mobile for years to come.

The Four Pillars of Health: Prioritising Them in Your Day

Take a look at your 24 hours—how do you factor in the four pillars of health: sleep, nutrition, movement, and relaxation?

Sleep

Many of us struggle with getting a full 8 hours of sleep, especially as we get older. But deep, restorative sleep is vital for your well-being. It’s when your body repairs itself, reducing aches, pains, and inflammation. If you're finding sleep a challenge, I’ve created a free eBook with strategies to help you get that much-needed rest. You can download it here.

Nutrition

How are your eating habits? Are you grabbing quick, sugary snacks on the go, or are you able to prepare nutritious meals? Reducing sugar and processed foods makes a huge difference after 50. Although meal planning can be time-consuming, the health benefits far outweigh the investment of time.

Movement

How much are you moving every day? Do you prioritise exercise or getting in your daily steps? Movement is essential—whether it's walking, a workout, or yoga. Exercise combats stiffness, joint pain, and immobility. Plus, it boosts cardiovascular health and mental well-being, so it's a win-win. 

Relaxation

Are you giving yourself time to relax every day? Stress, especially during menopause, can wreak havoc on your body and mind, exacerbating symptoms and affecting your well-being. Incorporating relaxation techniques—like mindfulness, yoga, or simply taking a break—can make a huge difference. Schedule relaxation like any other appointment in your day because it's just as important.

Try this easy yoga class on my YouTube channel - Helen Bee Yoga

Finding Time for Your Health: Time Management Tips

You might be wondering how you can fit sleep, nutrition, exercise, and relaxation into your busy life. Here are two strategies to help you manage your time better:

1. Identifying Time-Wasting Activities

Take a moment to think about how you spend your time each day. Are you scrolling through social media, watching Netflix, or playing games on your phone? While these activities might seem relaxing, they often leave us feeling drained rather than rejuvenated. Cutting back on just 45 minutes of these activities—3% of your day—can open up time for something more beneficial, like a workout, a walk, or meal prepping.

2. Setting Boundaries

Many of us struggle to say "no" to others, often putting our own needs last. It’s time to set boundaries. Prioritising your health isn't selfish—it's essential. Reflect on how much time you spend doing things for others, and ask yourself if it’s reciprocated. You deserve to be a priority in your own life.

Overcoming Challenges

There will be challenges—guilt, resistance from others, and the busy demands of life. But remember, the people who care about you will support your decision to prioritise your health. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who encourage your journey, and don’t be afraid to set boundaries. Your well-being is worth it.

Consistency is Key

Life happens, and there will be days when sticking to your plan feels impossible. That’s okay. What matters is consistency. Take small steps each day, and over time, those small efforts will add up. As long as you’re doing your best—whatever that looks like each day—you’re making progress.

Is Today Your Day One?

So, will today be one day, or day one? If you’ve been putting off prioritising your health, why not make today the day you start? 

Next Steps

Follow me on YouTube for tons of mobility and strengthening classes for women over 50.

Click here for my free limited series Secret Podcast all about joint health, mobility, mindset and motivation for women over 50. Get the keys to pain-free movement just listening in your car, whilst doing the housework or commuting to work!

And if you're interested in one-on-one support, I’m a certified Goal Success coach. Let’s work together to make your next chapter the best one yet. You deserve to live a life full of health, vitality, and joy—let’s make it happen.

Remember, it’s never too late to make your health a priority. You’re worth it!