I enjoy reading about Albert Einstein and his thought experiments. One of his most brilliant findings – the theory of relativity – was influenced by him imagining riding a free-falling elevator. This didn’t follow conventional thinking. And, a key part of his approach was creating space because space gives you freedom to relax and see things more clearly.
Space goes above the physical location you’re in and the time available on your calendar. It’s about creating space in your mind so you’re not overwhelmed with a flood of thoughts and emotions. It’s probably one of the least taught skills in modern life and yet so essential to your peace of mind.
Have you ever noticed this?
You’re deep into your experience and can’t see the full picture. There’s literally no space.
In my previous career, people would talk about seeing the forest above the trees. Yet, in reality, the forest was actually the trees – the work approach, issues and challenges. The true forest lies beyond the work at hand because why is all this work happening anyway. So, it gets done so you feel relaxed and happy.
The great news is that there’s a more direct, simple route you can take than that.
A Method to Gain Space in Your Day
1. See Yourself
You’ll like this. It’s super easy and takes hardly any time. Close your eyes for a moment. Breathe. Start to imagine looking at yourself in this very moment. This instruction is so important I’m repeating it. Look at yourself. Concentrate on your expression and the way you’re holding yourself. Little by little start to notice what’s in your surroundings and beyond. Just observe.
2. Ask Powerful Questions
Now that you’ve got a clear visual of yourself, start to kindly ask yourself questions based on what you see. Just suppose you’re a stranger seeing yourself.
Here are some questions you can use if that self looks like it’s feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or stressed out about something.
- What ways can I make this experience easier?
- How do I make the environment lighter?
- Who else can help me with what I’m facing?
- What is the meaningful reason I’m doing what I’m doing?
- What’s the one thing I’m not seeing that’s really important?
3. Do Something Different
Stick with me here. You’ve gained insight and momentum from the first two steps. This step is crucial. Name a few things you can do to move yourself from any negative place to a more positive state of mind. Then, put at least one of these things immediately into your calendar. If it’s not scheduled, it’s not real.
In Summary
Space is always available to you. It’s not limited by time. Lift up and out of your experience and see what’s really going on. You can do this anytime and anywhere. All it takes is mindfulness which leads to focus, clarity, and peace of mind.
I encourage you to share in the comments what step you’ll take from what you learned. It’s healing to express yourself. I know your self will thank you.
With ease.
Jennifer
