Stuff I Like: Empty Spaces

“A vacuum begs to be filled.”


Campi Catalaunici, Gaul a.d .451



Story of my life. Maybe the story of yours? I would like to think so, as it removes some of the self-recrimination I feel when asking myself where another day has gone. It comforts me that loads of really smart, competent people I know experience this same time sucking phenomenon.

The best antidote I have found for that treadmill sensation of working up a proverbial sweat while running in place, is to build some empty space into my day. Taking a few minutes to simply breathe and be present not only has a calming effect, but it has an energizing one, as well. And somehow, on the days that I manage to take my own advice and allow for a little empty space, I get more things done, and I usually get them done better.

Establishing a practice of meditation is a wonderful way to create and honor this space. But simply stopping for a few minutes and breathing deeply qualifies. This, in fact, is a form of meditation, and it works wonders.

The way in which I make sense of how slowing down often helps me to be more effective, more creative, and get to where I want to go more easily, is to picture a small child working feverishly on a project without adequate instructions our guidance. Lots of motion, and usually mounting frustration, but often a fair amount of wheel spinning, as well.

Well, I am that small child who often mistakes action for effectiveness, plowing headlong into my day without benefit of the kind of thoughtfulness by which synergy is possible. Slowing down, breathing deeply, and allowing my mind to be open and receptive can stop wheel spinning in its tracks, providing the space to make connections and reenter the fray with a sense of groundedness and calm that always serves me well.

As vacuums always beg to be filled I have come to realize that I will never stumble upon a nice ripe empty space. It must be planned for, protected, and honored. So why don’t you try making a date with yourself sometime soon and see how it works for you. I’d love to hear.