White Space
This is going to be a quick read from me today.
I want to share with you the concept of white space.
For those of you who appreciate art, you'll probably have heard of the term 'negative space'. And if not, let me explain…
Negative space is the space around the subject of an image. Just as important as the object itself, negative space helps to define the boundaries of the positive space and brings balance to a composition.*
Well, white space is inspired by negative space but instead of being within the confines of a canvas, I apply it to my calendar, my workload and my productivity.
Like many people who strive for time freedom and peak productivity, I love to time block. I'll literally map out my to do list into my calendar so that I can see how and when I will allocate the hours to the tasks.
(Don't freak out at these hours - it is from my UK calendar which now shows in AU timezone!)
The term white space comes from the literal white space in my google cal! And the reason it is such a great tool to prioritise is that we need white space in life! Here is why:
White spaces is time to think creatively
White space is time to stretch, snack, hydrate and mix things up
White space means that you can run over and not panic that your whole day is ruined
White space gives you mental clarity and reduces overwhelm
White space is time to remember you are a human, not a robot
White space is an opportunity to restore after social connection
White space benefits your nervous system!!!
Bringing it back full circle:
White space is the space around the items on your to do list. Just as important as the items themselves, white space helps to define the boundaries of the productive time and brings balance to your day.
So even when you have a lot to do - in fact, especially when you have a lot to do - always hold white space in your calendar. This is when your genius will strike and it will stop your nervous system from stressing out! I also highly recommend it for your days off too. Back to back social engagements can be… exhausting. A little white space might be the perfect solution.
Give it a go! Let me know how you get on.
