The stopwatch in Yogi Raman’s fable symbolizes time. The Sages of Sivana understood that time is fleeting; therefore, using time effectively is crucial. Julian suggests that John plan his schedule around top priorities. He explains the “Ancient Rule of Twenty” which states that “out of all the hundreds of activities you give your time to, only twenty percent of those will yield real, lasting results” (164). Effective use of time leads to a happier life and makes it possible to push the boundaries of the possible. This includes saying no to plans and people that do not enrich your purpose. When John explains that he feels empty inside yet doesn’t want to give up his material things, Julian recommends that he simplify his life. Wasting time is tragic because we are alive for such a short time. Julian recommends a “deathbed mentality” (168) to live every day as if it is the last one. This is an energizing thought that guards against a mediocre life. 

At this point, Julian starts looking tired for the first time, and he tells John that he probably won’t tell the other law firm partners about his sudden return because they wouldn’t even recognize him after his transformation.