One thing that strikes me as I read biographies of the great contributors to our history is a certain trait they all seemed to have in common: an urgent awareness of the press of time. It seems that most people who wind up doing great things are a little impatient about getting them done.
When Abraham Lincoln lost his last election (prior to finally winning the Presidency), his law partner told the story of Lincoln's dejection. Lincoln supposedly had always felt he was called to accomplish great things, and suddenly felt that his time was up. Theodore Roosevelt was famously impatient to accomplish greatness, perhaps to a fault. I could list many more. Other leaders, it seems, awoke to their calling once in the throes of some great challenge. It was only at that point that they grew impatient, understanding the fleeting nature of time.
In all cases, though, leaders come to understand how important time is in their quests. There is simply not enough time to do everything. When hit with a great challenge, when in pursuit of a vision, leaders suddenly switch things into a higher gear. What used to be entertaining isn't so entertaining anymore. What used to be relaxing only stresses them out more. Priorities suddenly become apparent, and leaders begin focusing on the "great" things and realize they can't do every "good" thing that comes along. It's called a sense of urgency, and it is the mark of a genuine leader.
Understand: you will not live forever. As the Roman ruler Marcus Aurelius said, "Do not live as though you have a thousand years." Make your time count. Once it's gone, it's gone.
