The Greeks had two different words for “time” – Chronos and Kairos.
Chronos refers to chronological or sequential time. It’s quantitative nature measures time in minutes. We’re familiar with it, at least in its root form. Chronology. Chronic pain. Chronological order.
Kairos refers to a proper or opportune time. It’s qualitative nature measures time in moments. Not quite as popular in use today.
Far too often we fall prey to living in Chronos time – getting this done by that time; checking our watch; feeling rushed, behind, disorganized. We note and measure every passing or coming minute. The clock hands ticking past feel akin to a treadmill we can never get off of.
Kairos time moments are often rare – and usually strikes us as novel. Our children taking their first steps, a sunset lighting up the horizon after a rainy day, a date night that you lose yourself in, getting into a deep flow with work we love. The clock hands don’t seem to move – or even more accurately, we don’t think of them as needing to move.
Chronos is historically personified in a few morbid ways – one as a father devouring his son. Another as Father Time clipping Cupid’s wings.
Kairos is typically personified with youth, beauty, peacefulness.
Chronos asks What time is it?
Kairos asks What time is it for?
How does this work financially?
When we are making money decisions – whether it’s for long-term investments or short-term cash flow – I think we’re all better off if we ask which TIme we’re being influenced by. Are we framing our financial decisions within Chronos’s influence, or are we framing it within Kairos’ influence?
Its unrealistic to think we can live – and plan for – in Kairos time at all moments. But setting aside some funds to intentionally live in Kairos is doable. Think of a healthy emergency fund that allows you to not have to fret any big unforeseen bills. Think of a budget that allows you to spend the money on a nice date out. Think of saving up for a vacation in advance instead of worrying about paying for it later. Think of creating a retirement planner that projects you having Enough and not needing to sock away every single dollar.
Don’t allow Chronos to be your dictator and devour your life.