Are you leaving enough room for life?

Creating margin in your daily schedule is a powerful way to reduce the constant sense of hurry and regain control over your time. When your day is packed back-to-back with meetings or never-ending commitments, even a small delay can cause a chain reaction of stress, anxiety and missed deadlines. By building in breathing room into your schedule, you create a buffer that allows for life’s inevitable uncertainties or opportunities to be present and connect with others, helping you adapt to changes or interruptions without feeling overwhelmed.

Margin also improves decision-making by giving you the space to slow down and think clearly - weighing pros and cons without a sense of impending deadlines. Rushed decisions are rarely the best ones, but with a calmer, more focused mindset, you can tackle challenges thoughtfully and effectively. In fact, having margin can enhance productivity overall. While it may seem counterintuitive, cramming more tasks into your day often leads to burnout and reduced effectiveness. Establishing a health margin in your daily schedule lets you recharge and refocus, enabling you to work smarter, not harder.

Beyond productivity, creating margin has significant emotional and mental health benefits. Constantly hurrying through your day creates stress, which takes a toll on your mood, immune system and overall well-being. Extra time in your schedule helps reduce this tension, allowing you to approach your tasks with greater peace and clarity. It also fosters a sense of presence and enjoyment. When you’re not rushing, you can be fully engaged in the moment—whether it’s a meaningful conversation, a creative project, or a simple moment of rest.

Ultimately, building margin into your schedule is about shifting from a survival mindset to a more intentional and proactive way of living. It’s not just about accomplishing more with less stress; it’s about savoring the journey and creating a life that feels balanced and fulfilling.