He was overwhelmed. Stressed out. “Slammed,” he said.
Of course, my client, a young lawyer, is not alone. A significant majority of business professionals and execs cite lack of time as their biggest challenge in achieving career goals.
I looked at a screenshot of my client’s Google Calendar: A sea of colors; back-to-back appointments all week long.
No breaks; no respite.
No white space.
White space is the key to creating a saner life.
In my weekly planning, I deliberately create lots of white space on my calendar.
I create white space because sometimes things take longer than I think they will.
I create white space because unexpected interruptions crop up.
I always leave a big block of white space on either side of a coaching appointment. Beforehand, I want to have time to review my notes and think about my client; what we worked on in the last call; and where we want to go. Afterwards, I want time to finish up my notes, reflect on the work we’ve done, and consider where we need to go next.
White space gives you the time to:
- Think
- Reflect
- Create
- Read
- Listen to music
- Hydrate
- Enjoy some quiet
- Breathe
- Be
White space is a powerful time management secret.
With white space, you’re not as frenetic. You’re able to slow down. You’re able to be more mindful and deliberate. You’re more aware of the beauty and the majesty that surrounds you. You’re able to connect more deeply with others. You’re able to recognize what’s merely urgent; and what’s truly important. You’re more resilient and resourceful. And happier too.
If you really want a life that is rich and full and deeply satisfying; if you really want to serve the people you’re meant to serve; if you really want to make an impact in the world, then create more white space!
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If you’d like help with this, I have a powerful system. Email me today! [email protected]