Fill 'Er Up

January 2, 2023

As I think about how I’d like to improve in 2023, I’m reminded of the story of The Rocks and the Jar.

The motivational speaker stood behind a table, in front of a gathering of a company’s managers. On the table was a large empty jar. Along with it were a container of sand, some pebbles, a large amount of larger gravel, and three large rocks.

“I need a volunteer to put these things into the jar and screw the lid on. I guarantee they will fit.” A confident young man came forward and started to fill the jar. He put in sand, then pebbles, then gravel, and one of the large rocks. He piled the last two rocks atop the jar. “I’m sorry. The lid must screw down on top.” The man sat down, scratching his head.

The jar was emptied. Two more of the managers tried to fill the jar, with similar results. The speaker emptied the jar one more time. Then he filled it himself, with room to spare. His method was to put the largest rocks in first, then the rest in descending order of size. The smaller pieces filled in around the larger rocks.

“Can anyone explain how this applies to the tasks you face each day?” The speaker looked around the room, hoping someone had caught on to the demonstration. An older executive in the middle of the room stood. “Be sure to give the most important parts of your job your first priority, then add the other tasks in as you are able. It’s the only way to make it all fit.” The motivational speaker nodded, and walked back to shake the man’s hand.

As we decide on our daily priorities, and our resolutions for 2023, keep that in mind!

Matthew 6:32, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.”