Summary

This article examines the tension between valuing one’s time and the urge to make  money and recommends which should dominate and how to accomplish that end.

Getting Started

Introduction to the article (perhaps by having everyone read it)

Everyone talks about work/life balance and how, in today’s society with the intrusive technology that exists, the two are becoming more and more intertwined. This often leads to a feeling of being overwhelmed and rushed and a sense that there just isn’t enough time. This article chooses to examine this issue in a different manner. It suggests that the choice is between money and time and that we are putting too great an emphasis on money and not appreciating the value of time. The article offers some questions to answer which will help clarify and give meaning to one’s actions. It also outlines some common mistakes which people tend to make when trying to adjust to this time/money conundrum. This lesson will have the students consider the ideas presented in the article and then, as a follow-up to that, identify a career that would reflect their preference. Once that has been completed, they will be asked to share their ideas with a partner to get feedback on the appropriateness of their choice.

Subject Area(s) covered

Careers, business studies

New Terms to explain

Time poverty

Materials Needed

Access to the article

A partner

Study and Discussion Activity

Key things students can learn from this lesson

  • Which do they value more – time or money?
  • Questions which they can ask themselves in order to give context to their actions
  • Potential careers which reflect their choices.

Action (here’s how we’ll do it)

  • Begin by asking the students what is meant by the statement, “Time is money”.
  • Once an answer has been established, either through class discussion or online comments, have the students access and read the article.
  • Indicate to them that, once the article has been read, they are to answer the following questions and then discuss their responses with their partner in order to get feedback on their ideas.
    • Which do you value more – money or time?
    • What actions would you take to demonstrate that choice and maintain that focus?
    • What impact does that have on your way of life and standard of living?
    • What occupation or career would best match their choice?
    • How does this occupation/career support their choice?

Consolidation of Learning

  • The consolidation of learning will occur as the student presents and discusses his or her responses with the partner.
Success and Additional Learning

Success Criteria

  • The students will come to realize that a time/money balance which reflects their values
  • must be established in order to give their actions meaning and establish a sense of well-being.

Confirming Activities

As a confirming activity, the students should be asked to submit a brief writing assignment which outlines what they have learned as a result of this activity and actions they intend to take to help establish a contented and meaningful life.

Helpful Internet Searches

Activities to do together

  1. Explore careers which reflect their money/life choice.
  2. Examine the cost of living in various locations in order to compare that with their career choice.