The Big Rocks & The Jar
A high
school science teacher wanted to demonstrate a concept to his students. He
takes a large-mouth jar and places several large rocks in it. He then asks the
class, "Is it full?" Unanimously, the class reply, "Yes!"
The
teacher then takes a bucket of gravel and pours it into the jar. The small
rocks settle into the spaces between the big rocks. He then asks the class,
"Is it full?" This time there are some students holding back, but
most reply, "Yes!"
The
teacher then produces a large can of sand and proceeds to pour it into the jar.
The sand fills up the spaces between the gravel. For the third time, the
teacher asks, "Is it full?" Now most of the students are wary of
answering, but again, many reply, "Yes!"
Then the
teacher brings out a pitcher of water and pours it into the jar. The water
saturates the sand. At this point the teacher asks the class, "What is the
point of this demonstration?"
One
bright young student raises his hand and then responds, "No matter how full
one's schedule is in life, he can always squeeze in more things!"
"No,"
replies the teacher, "The point is that unless you first place the big
rocks into the jar, you are never going to get them in. The big rocks are the
important things in your life -- your family, your friends, your personal
growth. If you fill your life with small things -- as demonstrated by the
gravel, the sand, and the water -- you will never have the time for the
important things.
So, what
are the "Big Rocks" in your life? Spending time with your children,
your parents or your spouse? Taking the seminar or class to get the information
and perspective you need to succeed? Making the time to set goals, plan or
evaluate your progress? When you are hassled because there is no time, remember
the story about the Big Rocks and the Jar!
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Copied with permission from Roy Boswell