44 THE WONDERS OF WHITE SPACE White space is a phrase we use to describe a designated time that would show up on your calendar as “white space” with nothing scheduled in it. That time would not be pre-planned in any way as to how you are going to use it. White space is a wonderful way to relearn spontaneity and restore a feeling of control over your time in that it: • Allows you to freely choose how you want to use the time right in that moment. • Gives you space to ground yourself and respond to what you want and need in the present moment. • Is guilt free “YOU” time. HOW MUCH TIME? Ideally, white space would be more than two hours. Preferably a half day or more, and scheduled regularly (daily, weekly and/or monthly). It is a good idea to have some white space weekly or optimally, daily. Perhaps it can only be an hour or two at first, but eventually it can be built up to be more. HOW TO USE YOUR WHITE SPACE In your white space you would do only what you want to do and refrain from what you feel you should do. There should be nothing preplanned to fill this space and the decision on how to use it should come in the first moment you are in it. If you are unsure, just sit and be present and listen to what comes up. It may take a few attempts to learn how to listen in the moment to what you truly want without giving in to your shoulds. The idea is that you will learn to be more spontaneous (remember spontaneity?) and responsive to what you hear inside. PROTECTING YOUR WHITE SPACE Having and keeping white space is not easy, especially when you have a busy, demanding schedule. It takes a commitment to it, but more importantly it takes a shift in perception. Most people think of white space as a self-indulgent dream, but until you begin looking at it as much as a responsibility as going to work or getting the children off to school, it will be very difficult to keep and protect this space.
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