Every second counts

Recently, I watched the TV series ‘The Bear’, a captivating show centered around the dynamics of working in a kitchen. The series delves into the lives of different characters seeking purpose, grappling with trauma and grief, all within the high-stress environment of a kitchen striving to earn a Michelin star.

A recurring mantra throughout seasons 1 and 2 is embodied by a sign in the kitchen that reads ‘every second counts.’ Initially interpreted as a call to work faster and maximize productivity.

‘Every second counts’ means what you do imparts value to the time. The seconds only count if you are doing something with them. You shouldn't take a break because you can be getting more work done. The mantra feels toxic and often burns people out.

In a beautiful scene during season 2, episode 6 'Forks,' the significance of 'every second counts' is beautifully redefined through a heartfelt conversation with another main chef. She describes her dad making notes of small things he notices during his travels; the palm trees he’d seen, a time he tried escargot, or a time the ocean looked purple.

‘Every second counts’ in her mind means every second already matters. What you do with them is your choice, ultimately it is about ‘time well spent’. You could always be doing more with the time, and you could always be doing less.

Your time is already valuable as it is limited. You could be making extra hours at work, you could take care of a family member, or enjoy a meal or holiday. The second counts, as long as you think it’s time well spent. And the choices you make about how to spend time, tell something about how you view things.

The episode made me reflect on my ‘time well spent’ at work and in life. S02E06 ‘Forks’ has to be one of the best 30min of television I’ve ever watched. You can watch the 5min conversation here. It’s more inspiring when you understand the characters, so I recommend watching the full series.