If you want to kill time try working it to death.
This quote cleverly inverts the common phrase “kill time” to offer a different perspective on how we approach the concept of time. Typically, "killing time" implies passing moments idly or waiting for something while remaining inactive. However, Sam Levenson urges us to reconsider this mindset by suggesting that we should 'work time to death,' which means using our time actively and productively rather than wasting it. From a broader perspective, this philosophy can have significant implications on how we value our time. Time is one of the most finite and precious resources we have, and the quote beautifully reminds us that instead of viewing time as a foe to be wasted, we can treat it as a resource to be maximized through purposeful action.
When we apply this idea in our daily lives, it enlightens us to prioritize meaningful activities that challenge or enrich us, turning moments into accomplishments rather than empty intervals. Additionally, this approach can foster a sense of fulfillment and personal growth because it encourages us to make intentional decisions about how we spend each minute. However, it is also important to balance this approach with necessary rest and reflection, recognizing that productive use of time doesn’t solely mean constant busyness but thoughtfully engaging with what matters. Overall, this quote underscores the power of perspective in how we perceive our most limited and invaluable asset—time—and motivates us to treat it not as something to be diminished but as something to be worked fully and with purpose.