Runway - Creating Space For YOU

Read Time: 6 minutes

Today I would like to talk about creating space for yourself. There is a word I associate with this.

Runway.

This word has tremendous meaning.

You may be thinking of:

• Fashion Runway: A long narrow platform, typically raised, where models showcase clothing and accessories during a fashion show.
• Airport Runway: A paved or cleared strip on which aircraft take off or land.
• Runway (Literal): A narrow, defined path or strip used for various purposes, such as a track for running, a path for bicycles, or a designated area for vehicles.
• Runway (Metaphorical): In a broader sense, "runway" can be used metaphorically to refer to a period or space of time or opportunity, often associated with preparation or planning for future endeavors. For example, having a financial runway refers to the time one can sustain themselves financially without additional income.
• Modeling Runway: In computer graphics and 3D modeling, a runway can refer to a designated area where animations or simulations take place, often used for testing and development purposes.

I am talking about a metaphorical runway today.

In the canvas of our busy lives, the importance of creating a runway cannot be overstated. It's not about filling every moment with tasks but rather creating a deliberate pause – a runway for you to design your life.

Storytime.

2020 crushed me. Well, I thought that at the time. Turns out it created the biggest opportunity of my life.

I had a massive loss with two companies, literally overnight. Like most, I was not prepared and I was already going through a rebuilding phase.

In a very short time, life changed. I know I’m not alone in this.

No income
No school for kids
No special needs resources for our daughter
No time as everyone was locked down at home
No clue what to do next

What the F$&!.

This caused me to ask a way bigger question: how can I ensure I’m never here again and create my own economy?

I stepped back.
I gave myself RUNWAY.
I designed myself 10 years from now.

This made me ask completely different questions than I normally would think a few years out.

I read the book Be Your Future Self Now by Benjamin Hardy.

I binge watched videos from Benjamin Hardy and Dan Sullivan on 10X being better than 2X.

Runway. This was the life changing word I had never ever given much thought to nor myself the space to create that runway, that white space to prepare to launch.

Let’s get into what this looks like.

Imagine your calendar as a landscape, with each open block representing potential, opportunity, and personal investment. In this space, you're not just managing time, meaning where your attention goes; you're crafting your future. It's a runway for growth.

The significance lies in the quality, not just the quantity, of your commitments. This intentional white space isn't about idleness but about purposeful exploration. It's where you plan, reflect, and recalibrate – a sanctuary for the germination of ideas and the cultivation of your potential.

As you navigate the intricacies of your schedule, consider allocating specific slots for personal growth. Treat them as non-negotiable appointments with yourself. Whether it's reading a book, pursuing a hobby, or simply allowing your mind to wander, these moments are the fertilizer for your aspirations.

The white space isn't an indulgence; it's an investment in the most critical project of your life: yourself. It's the runway where you prepare for takeoff, ensuring a smoother journey toward your goals. Imagine the clarity you may have by allowing yourself space?

Now, let's delve into the practical side of this concept.

Begin by assessing your current schedule. Identify areas where you can create pockets of white space without compromising your essential responsibilities. It might mean decluttering your to-do list or reevaluating commitments that no longer align with your aspirations.

Consider the ripple effect of this intentional approach. As you carve out space for personal growth, you not only enrich your own life but also enhance your ability to contribute meaningfully to others. It's a symbiotic relationship – the more you invest in yourself, the more you have to offer to those around you.

This right here, being the best version of me is the single greatest gift I can give my family. You can too.

Remember, this isn't a one-size-fits-all strategy. Your white space should reflect your unique needs and goals. Tailor it to align with your passions and interests. If you're unsure where to start, experiment with different activities during your dedicated time until you discover what resonates most with your authentic self.

As you embark on this journey, anticipate resistance. The culture of busyness often glorifies constant activity, making intentional pauses seem counterintuitive. However, it's precisely in these pauses that you find the clarity and energy needed to tackle challenges more effectively, while also creating the long term results you want.

In essence, creating white space on your calendar is a conscious act of self-love. It's an acknowledgment that you deserve time for personal development, creativity, and the pursuit of happiness. It's a rebellion against the myth that productivity is solely measured by the number of tasks completed.

The runway you create on your calendar is a testament to your commitment to personal growth. It's a statement that your dreams are not bound by the constraints of a busy schedule but are given the space to flourish. As you navigate this intentional journey, remember: the white space isn't an empty void; it's a canvas waiting for the brushstrokes of your aspirations. So, give yourself the gift of time, and watch as your life transforms into a masterpiece of purpose and fulfillment.

Please do this. YOU are worth it.

Action Items:

• Schedule Dedicated "White Space": Block off specific time slots in your calendar for intentional "white space." Treat these periods as non-negotiable appointments with yourself. Use this time for reflection, personal growth activities, or pursuing interests that contribute to your overall well-being.
• Prioritize and Delegate: Assess your current commitments and responsibilities. Identify tasks that may be delegated or deprioritized to create more room in your schedule. This might involve setting clear boundaries, learning to say no, or redistributing tasks to free up valuable time for your personal development.
• Establish Clear Goals: Define your short-term and long-term goals. Having a clear roadmap allows you to allocate time more purposefully. Break down large goals into manageable tasks, and schedule dedicated sessions to work on them during your designated white space. This strategic approach helps you use your time efficiently and stay focused on what truly matters.

Hope you found value in this.

Thanks for reading.

Please share.