Why it's a good to get guidelines when it comes to prioritizing your life
The theory of the big rocks is a concept that can be understood in various ways and can be effectively illustrated through a short video. The story begins with a university professor who stands before her students with a large glass jar. This jar is empty at first. She begins by adding several fist-sized rocks to the container.
Once the rocks are packed tightly and reach the brim, she asks her students if they believe the container is now full. With the rocks almost spilling over the top, the students confidently respond with a yes.
However, the professor continues her demonstration. She takes out handfuls of gravel and pebbles, and much to the students' surprise, there is still space in the jar for these smaller items. Again, she poses the question about whether the container is full.
The answer remains yes, as the gravel and pebbles settle in around the larger rocks. As if to further prove her point, she finds some sand and pours it into the jar. The sand easily fits in between the gravel and the larger rocks, filling every nook and cranny.
To emphasize her message, the professor decides to repeat the experiment but alters the order of the items. She starts this time by pouring in sand, then adds gravel and pebbles afterward. Finally, she tries to fit in the large rocks. This time, a surprising result occurs.
The students watch as the large rocks cannot fit into the jar at all. The smaller items occupy all the available space, leaving no room for what she initially considered to be the most important parts of the exercise.
In this analogy, the large rocks symbolize the most significant aspects of life, such as one's health, close relationships, and passions. The gravel and pebbles represent work and daily routines, while the sand embodies all the minor tasks and distractions, like emails, social media, and unproductive meetings.
The theory demonstrates the importance of starting with the big rocks to properly fill your container—the container being a metaphor for your life. If you get bogged down by the smaller details and distractions, you risk not having adequate space for the most critical elements.
To apply this theory effectively in your own life, consider two essential questions. First, identify what your big rocks are. Ask yourself what matters most to you. Second, evaluate if there is enough space in your life for these big rocks.
Reflecting on these questions will help you gain clarity and may lead you to rethink your priorities. It's possible that your current situation aligns with your values. Alternatively, you may realize the need to adjust your focus. The goal is to ensure that the big rocks take precedence in your life, directing your time and energy to what truly makes a difference.