Before Breakfast Second Cup: Full time doesn't mean all of the time
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Jan 10, 2026 Full-time work doesn’t have to consume all your time! Laura Vanderkam breaks down the math of a week, revealing more hours for life than many believe. She busts the myth that we spend most of our waking hours at the office and argues that part-time work doesn't always mean a more balanced life. By tracking time, listeners can discover pockets of potential for exercise, socializing, and hobbies. Plus, she shares practical scheduling tips to maximize free time, shifting the mindset from 'no time' to 'what will you choose to do?'
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Full-Time Isn't Literally Full Time
- The phrase "full-time" misleadingly suggests work consumes all your time when it typically means ~35–40 hours weekly.
- Recognizing leftover hours reframes possibilities for hobbies, exercise, and family time.
Do The Math: 72 Hours For Life
- A 168-hour week minus sleep and work often leaves roughly 72 waking, nonworking hours.
- That remaining time usually outweighs work time and enables meaningful life activities.
Track Time To Reveal Hidden Hours
- Track your time to see how many nonworking hours you actually have each week.
- Use that awareness to schedule exercise, volunteering, or time with family.