Lachlan Brown
As Lachlan Brown, founder of Hack Spirit and a practising mindfulness and Buddhism expert, I’ve observed something fascinating. Those who prioritize time over money often exhibit a unique set of traits.
It’s not about shunning wealth, but rather recognizing that time is a non-renewable resource. These individuals understand that while money can be earned back, time, once spent, is gone forever.
In this article, we’ll explore the 10 special traits commonly found in people who value time over money. And who knows? You may find that you share some of these unique qualities.
So, let’s dive right in.
1) Mindful of the present
People who value time over money have a unique sense of presence. They understand that the only time we truly have is the present moment.
In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to get caught up in future plans or past regrets. But those who prioritize time have a knack for staying grounded in the here and now. This mindfulness allows them to truly enjoy and make the most of each moment.
It’s like turning your attention to a beautifully intricate mandala in a Buddhist temple. When you focus on the present, you can appreciate the beauty and complexity of each moment.
But remember, this isn’t about shirking responsibilities or ignoring future goals. It’s about recognizing the value of the present and making conscious decisions to enjoy it. Because once a moment is gone, it’s gone forever.
2) Embracing non-attachment
Another trait I’ve noticed in people who value time over money is their ability to practice non-attachment.
Non-attachment is a central teaching in Buddhism and mindfulness. It’s about enjoying life’s experiences without clinging to them, understanding that everything in life is transient.
Thich Nhat Hanh, a renowned Buddhist monk and mindfulness expert, once said, “You must love in such a way that the person you love feels free.” This quote beautifully encapsulates the idea of non-attachment.
People who prioritize time often apply this concept to their approach to wealth. They understand that money, like everything else, is fleeting. While they may enjoy the comforts and conveniences money can provide, they don’t allow their happiness to depend on it.
Just like when I meditate. I aim to observe my thoughts without getting attached to them. The goal isn’t to stop thinking but to prevent our thoughts from consuming us.
Similarly, those who value time over money enjoy the fruits of their labor but are not consumed by the pursuit of wealth. They know that true richness lies in time well spent.
3) Living in alignment with Dharma
Dharma is a profound concept in Buddhism, often translated as the “law of nature” or the “truth of life”. It’s about living in alignment with your true nature and the universal truth.
People who value time over money often live their lives in accordance with their Dharma. They align their actions with their true selves, rather than societal norms or expectations around wealth.
It’s a raw and honest way to live, choosing to follow one’s own path rather than chasing after material wealth. This doesn’t mean they ignore financial responsibilities. Instead, they focus on fulfilling their true purpose and making meaningful use of their time.
In essence, they embody the Buddha’s wisdom: “Your work is to discover your world and then with all your heart give yourself to it.” They give themselves fully to their passions and purpose, understanding that this approach to life brings far more satisfaction than any amount of money ever could.
4) Embodying a mindful perspective
Mindfulness is more than a concept; it’s a way of life. It involves being aware of our thoughts, feelings, sensations, and the environment around us, without judgment.
Those who value time over money often embody this mindful perspective. They are aware of their actions and their impact on their time. They understand that every decision they make is an investment of their most precious resource.
This means making conscious choices about how they spend their time, from the work they do to the people they surround themselves with. They know that every moment spent in stress or dissatisfaction is a moment lost.
This raw and honest approach to life isn’t always easy. It requires constant awareness and an ongoing commitment to choose time over money.
5) Practicing egolessness
In my book, “Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego”, I explore the concept of egolessness.
Egolessness isn’t about denying oneself; it’s about understanding that we’re part of a larger whole. It’s about recognizing that our actions echo beyond our individual selves.
People who prioritize time over money often practice this kind of egolessness. They understand that their actions, especially how they choose to spend their time, can have an impact on others.
They don’t let their ego dictate their choices. Instead, they make decisions based on what is best for their well-being and those around them.
Just as I’ve shared in my book, living with a minimum ego leads to maximum impact. And those who truly value time understand this principle. They know that their time can be spent in ways that not only enrich their lives but also contribute positively to the world around them.
6) Understanding the impermanence of life
One of the most profound teachings in Buddhism and mindfulness is the concept of impermanence – the belief that everything in life is transient and constantly changing.
People who value time over money have a deep understanding of this truth. They know that life is fleeting and that each moment is a unique, unrepeatable experience.
They don’t hold onto the past or worry about the future. Instead, they focus on fully living in the present, knowing that each moment is precious and irreplaceable.
This raw and honest perspective on life can be confronting, but it’s also incredibly liberating. It frees them from the societal rat race for wealth accumulation and allows them to truly appreciate and make the most of their time.
7) Prioritizing inner peace
Those who value time over money often prioritize inner peace above all else. They understand that no amount of wealth can buy tranquility of mind and contentment.
Instead of chasing after material possessions, they invest their time in nurturing their inner self. They practice mindfulness, meditation, or other activities that bring them peace and happiness.
This raw and honest approach to life can be quite counter-cultural in our materialistic society. But as the Dalai Lama famously said, “We can never obtain peace in the outer world until we make peace with ourselves.”
People who value time over money understand this truth. They seek inner peace before external success, knowing that true happiness comes from within. They may not have the most money, but they often have a wealth of tranquility and contentment that money can’t buy.
8) Embracing simplicity
It may seem counterintuitive, but those who value time over money often lead simpler lives. They understand the value of simplicity and its role in mindfulness.
Mindfulness encourages us to fully engage with our present experience, without getting overwhelmed by unnecessary distractions. A simpler life, free from the clutter of excessive material possessions, supports this practice.
People who prioritize time tend to declutter their lives, both physically and mentally. They focus on what truly matters and let go of the rest. They understand that the more possessions we have, the more our possessions have us.
Embracing simplicity is not about denying oneself of life’s pleasures. It’s about making space for what truly brings joy and meaning to our lives. It’s about living mindfully, fully aware and engaged with each moment.
Summing up
In concluding, it’s clear that people who value time over money possess unique traits that set them apart. These traits—mindfulness, non-attachment, alignment with Dharma, egolessness, an understanding of impermanence, prioritizing inner peace, and embracing simplicity—are deeply rooted in Buddhist and mindfulness teachings.
These individuals have a rare understanding of life’s fleeting nature and the importance of making each moment count. They embody a way of living that is rich in contentment, peace, and purpose.
If you’re intrigued by this perspective and wish to delve deeper into Buddhism and mindfulness principles, I invite you to check out my book “Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego”. It offers practical insights on how to live a life of purpose and impact while keeping the ego in check.
As we journey through life, let’s remember that time is our most precious resource. The way we choose to spend it defines our lives. So let’s make each moment count.
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