Feeling too busy? How to create more space in your life

“Space: the final frontier...” is a phrase familiar to generations of Star Trek viewers. Space as a frontier is a strange notion, given that it’s all around us. Even the smallest particles contain more space than matter.

But space often does seem like the final frontier. Phrases such as ‘chasing my tail’, ‘spinning plates’, ‘juggling’, ‘catching up’, ‘catch you later’, ‘busy, busy’ are ubiquitous. Eating sandwiches at the computer at lunchtime and meals in front of the TV, having conversations and looking at text messages at the same time are all part of the crowded nature of many lives.

Physically and mentally rushing from pillar to post has costs, and not making space to rest the body, still the mind and refresh our energy may contribute to difficulties with concentration, mistakes, forgetfulness, dissatisfaction, sleep and decision-making.

When being busy becomes a habit

‘Busy-ness’ can become a habit. If you overdo things for too long, it can become difficult to know when to stop, and can create the illusion of being important and ‘in demand’.

Sometimes the simple question of ‘what would happen if you didn’t do x, y or z?’ can be quite illuminating as you realise that the answer may be ‘nothing much’ or ‘nobody would notice’.

Sometimes, filling our lives with activity and constant connection can be a way of avoiding the worrying or negative thoughts which can rush in if we allow them space to do so, but it might be better to listen to them and deal with what they raise, or at least acknowledge them and let them pass, than pushing them aside and jumping back on the treadmill.

For some people, being busy all the time can be a way of avoiding feelings such as fear of failure or inadequacy: ‘Don’t judge me harshly; I’d do better if I had more time’.

Giving your mind and body space, and taking time to relax, think and choose, may help you feel more focused and deliberate in how you use your time. Instead of being hostage to a set of what are often self-imposed demands, you can make choices, and may begin to recognise that you do have a choice.

Space in this context is not a frontier; it’s infinite and always there for the taking.

Small ways to begin making space

• Stop and do nothing but follow your breath, even if only for a minute, every now and then.
• When eating, concentrate only on that and do nothing else.
• Pause and take a breath before you respond in conversation.
• Consider giving yourself some screen-free time before bed.
• Go for a 10-minute walk each day, perhaps in green space if that’s available to you.
• Make an appointment with a life coach who can help you to better manage your work-life balance.