White Space
- Jeanette Sinclair
- Aug 2, 2023
- 3 min read
What is white space? Why is it important?
White Space has been defined in terms of design as well as self. In terms of design, white space is literally the area of white space on a page that gives better perspective, is pleasing to the eye and highlights the main area of the design. In terms of self, white space isn’t that much different.
Discovering white space
I discovered the concept of white space during my coach training and it was as though a light bulb had turned on. I had been (and continue to be) busy with family, the hustle of work and doing my best to give back. The thought of creating time to step out of my day -- not for a purpose, not for a walk with the purpose of exercise, not for a yoga class that has multiple purposes (for those that know me personally - stop laughing! I did take a yoga class once or twice!) -- this thought of unstructured time away was foreign to me.
However, I did it. I walked through that mist. At first it was scheduled and on purpose. A set amount of time, distractions were off or out of sight and I went for it. Now don’t be confused, this is not meditation. This is different. This is about letting your thoughts and concerns untangle themselves and find a path. Have I lost you? I know, for all of us that have packed lives and busy schedules and obligations (which is most of us!), this is a hard sell.
Why create white space?
White space allows time for your brain, emotions and thoughts to relax and find perspective. To highlight the main area that is important. Just like white space in design.
We need to process. This sounds heavier than it is, and it's not necessarily easy. Think of it as creating space on a shelf to sort out other shelves (like that dreaded junk drawer). Everything is valuable, however, if it’s mixed up you can’t see what you need when you need it, just like you can’t fit puzzle pieces together when they’re tossed out of the box!
Execution
While I’ve floated into it a few times unintentionally, I also try to note where this happens and then to create those instances. For example, going for a walk. Yes, I did say it had other purposes, however, go for a walk where you won’t bump into anyone you know, somewhere soothing if possible like a forest or oceanside. Then just walk. Don’t try to think. Don’t force your thoughts. At first, yes it’s difficult. It’s like falling asleep when your thoughts are racing. But turn the thoughts off. After a while, you’ll feel it. That problem or challenge that’s been poking at you…options, ideas and alternatives will bubble up. Letting your brain relax, process and sort.
If you’re familiar with the state of flow, this might sound familiar. Read Kara Cutruzzula’s article on Diane Allen’s TED talk on How to find flow (and lose yourself in it).
Losing yourself is key. Lose yourself and let go in order to find the answers. Sounds like a fortune cookie, but try it.
Recently, I had a business challenge that knocked me off balance in a major way. After solidifying a few details and sending a few emails, I let it all go for 24 hours. I absolutely DID NOT think about it or try to solve things.
What happened was truly amazing. Solutions and opportunities that I didn’t realize existed started seeming not only in my realm, but also a possibility. Once I grabbed that thread and kept following it, a grand plan formed.
Try it. Trust it.
Now what?
First step is to commit and set aside some time.
Second step is to find out what works for you. Is it a walk, a drive, listening to music, listening to nothing? Experiment and figure it out because you’re worth it. Stop trying to figure it out and let the ideas and solutions come to you.
Third step, put your thoughts into action!
For more insight or guidance on your goals and to-do list, reach out for a conversation on how we can keep you on track. As a Virtual Assistant and Coach-Consultant, I wear a few hats (not too many) and my goal is to support entrepreneurs and business owners.
~ Jeanette Sinclair
