DREIESKIVA​|Roald Kvam

We can all agree that a day consists of 24 hours. That part is the same for everyone.
But did you know that none of us actually has the same clock?

We experience time—and time blocks—differently. That’s because we each have different preferred behavioural, collaborative, and learning styles.

Some people try to squeeze too many tasks into a single hour. Others assume there’s plenty of time for everything—and see no need to watch the clock. Some carefully divide their time between their responsibilities to ensure things get done on time. Others focus instead on how to optimize their time.

Most of us shift back and forth between good time management and poor time habits. True, we can’t control time—but we can control how we use it. That’s the essence of time management: choosing how to spend your time and energy based on the work ahead, instead of being controlled by your workload, milestones, or time pressure.

And here’s where it gets interesting: there are far more “time zones” than you may realize. Because how we manage time is shaped by our personality and our preferred behavioural style in different contexts or areas of life.

One tool I’m certified in and truly value is persolog’s behavioural profiles—perhaps better known as DISC. Although there are 20 distinct profile types, for simplicity, let’s look at the four main styles: D, I, S, and C.

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If you have a D style (Dominance)

You want results and prefer to be in control. You’re great at setting goals, cutting through clutter, and eliminating time-wasters.
You tend to take on too many tasks and juggle multiple things at once. You can be impatient, putting intense pressure on yourself and others.
You dislike routine work and under-stimulating situations. You work fast and want all the data immediately—but only the essentials, in bullet points. Details feel like a waste of time.

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If you have an I style (Influence)

You love interaction and socializing. You’re spontaneous, full of energy, and attuned to those around you.
You often plan too optimistically and take on too much. You’re frequently late and may not complete your task list.
Interruptions don’t bother you—they might bring something fun, helpful, or exciting. You tend to jump quickly between tasks.
You prefer visuals, colors, and a broad overview. And please—don’t present the content as “finished.” You want to contribute, co-create, and build on it.

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If you have an S style (Steadiness)

You value stability and safety. You thrive in calm, conflict-free environments.
You’re organized, good with routines, and attentive to relationships. But you struggle with time pressure and sudden changes. You find it hard to say no and dislike confrontation.
You work slowly and don’t enjoy being rushed. You prefer written instructions, clearly laid out step-by-step.
Once you feel safe about what to do, when, and how—you’re like clockwork and always deliver on time.

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If you have a C style (Conscientiousness)

You value precision, structure, and logical thinking. You document everything and maintain detailed archives.
You’re efficient and meet your commitments. You dislike chaos and disorder and react negatively to time-wasting.
You may struggle with teamwork and get lost in the details (which tends to annoy the D-types).
You’re not necessarily fast, but you’re thorough. You need time to check for accuracy. You want information that’s detailed and specific—high-level summaries and lofty ideas are too vague for you.

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Understanding your style helps you focus

Once you get to know yourself and your natural behavioural style, you can choose focus more effectively when planning. You take control of your time—and minimize access for the time thieves.

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If you’re a D-type and want to plan with focus

• Write down your goals and expectations.
• Avoid overreacting—consider your long-term objectives.
• Sketch out your tasks and appointments—even briefly.
• Don’t overload your schedule. Avoid letting stress rule the day.
• Expect interruptions; plan some buffer time.
• Stick to your plan. Be more patient with others.
• Choose key documents to read in depth. Ask someone to highlight the essentials.
• Tackle routine tasks first. Set short deadlines and apply a bit of time pressure.
• Don’t just expect punctuality from others—be punctual yourself.

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If you’re an I-type and want to plan with focus

• Make sure your goals are realistic.
• Curb your spontaneity and your urge to chase shiny new ideas. Write your goals down.
• Structure your day. Don’t overestimate what you can do. Organize your workspace.
• List all your tasks. Stay consistent.
• When surprises come up, don’t instantly switch plans. Finish your “small talk” faster.
• Consider what subscriptions or websites you can ditch. Focus only on necessary info.
• Tackle unpleasant tasks first, then reward yourself with fun ones.
• Set personal deadlines. Remember: jokes and fun can motivate—but they’re not always the answer.
• Start tasks on time. Be punctual!

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If you’re an S-type and want to plan with focus

• Make sure your goals support stability.
• Try to embrace change—it can enrich your life.
• Believe in yourself. Just get started!
• Plan your day. Find faster ways to reach your goals.
• Start work earlier to avoid time pressure.
• Social time is helpful—but too much is distracting.
• Spot behaviour patterns as they emerge.
• Skim low-value content without losing quality.
• Begin with the hardest tasks. Set time limits.
• Ask for help when conflict arises.
• Others may act faster—take decisions quicker and dare to take more risks.

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If You’re a C-type and want to plan with focus

• Make sure your goals drive outcomes—not just perfection.
• Remind yourself: people matter more than rules, and not every risk is bad.
• Don’t over-plan. Focus on results.
• Spend less time analysing. Learn to decide faster and with more ease.
• Don’t respond so critically to interruptions.
• Accept that not everything can be perfectly planned.
• Schedule “quiet hours” for deep focus.
• Use brief notes—no more than two sentences.
• Start with the tasks that are long overdue.
• Make decisions!
• And remember the 80/20 rule: 80% of your results come from 20% of your actions.

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So, what kind of time “zone” are you in?
Knowing your behavioural style not only helps you understand how you manage time—it gives you the tools to reclaim it.