The "time problem" with being helpful

Continuing on the theme that you can buy time, I got the following mail from a friend of mine today (names and locations obscured to protect the innocent):

I wonder if I can ask your advice on something (which, admittedly, will be somewhat ironic).

For the past few months, I’ve noticed I field (as I’m sure you do as well which is why I’m reaching out to you) about 10 requests a week from people who want (a) general career advice (b) help marketing their new startup or blog or (c) an actual job in new media/traditional media/press/etc.

Everyone wants to meet (a) for lunch [which is impossible because of work commitments and meetings all day], (b) for drinks [also impossible unless I let this interfere, in a big way, with social plans] or (c) for brunch/coffee/drinks/etc. on the weekend.

At first I took calls during the week, but that is no longer an option because of work.  For the past 3 months, I’ve pushed everything to the weekend days.  But for weeks upon weeks I’ve found myself in back to back meetings all day, every day, giving marketing and job advice Saturdays and Sundays.

So, I’m not sure how to handle this and wonder if you have any advice. 

I realize I personally would never be even close to where we are without the unending, brilliant and generous advice of people like you and other incredibly busy people. But I also realize that working all day during the week, then giving marketing and business advice every weekend, is not sustainable. I would really love and appreciate any advice (and sorry to burden you with this!)

I think we all go through this.   the bad news is -- there is no good answer.   But there are time hacks to fit helping people into your life. More in this on a future post …