How much time do we have? In our lifetime, time is of the essence. It is the word that we use with the word ‘life’. A unit of measurement we use to quantify, and regulate, as we work our way through things. However, there is a fine line between having time, and having no time at all. Why? We use our time constantly, without necessarily being aware of it.

I am one of a rare handful of university students that don’t have exams during the exam period, which means I have an unusually long holiday, if you compare it to those who do have exams. Like any busy bee, I look forward to the holidays. I can do whatever I want, with no obligation, freely.

Now you might be wondering: What did I end up doing instead? Unpaid work. Side projects. Things that I do for fun are what others would consider work. It sounds stupid, right? Why would someone work when they can rest? How could someone have fun with side projects?

Fortunately, a few days ago, I read a quote from someone who gave me the answer I was looking for.

“The only way a side project will work is … When you treat something like it’s stupid” – van Schneider, Spotify’s Lead Designer

Freedom: The feeling of being able to do whatever I want without judgement or fear. That is what drives me to do the work that I’m doing during my holidays. I suppose that’s why it feels so rewarding, satisfying, and so easily accomplished, compared to the work which I perceive as obligatory.

Perhaps perception is the key to simplifying work, and the key to getting things done easily. As we have fun with what we do, time flies. It becomes possible to get things done more quickly, efficiently and easily, rather than stressing out.

By the way, this post was fun to write!