"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!
with permission from, Edward Allen Toppel
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