find space to create space

it's so often that we get "stuck" in our day in and day out grove of life and we often don't realize how long it's been since we broke out of our own routine. it's like we almost think by staying focused and on task that we'll be better able to "crack the nut" of whatever it is you're stuck on but the reality is, i've found it's the opposite. it's when we break our focus or our routine is when the breakthroughs happen. and if you're someone who's routine is the opposite--you're always on the go--then this works for you too, it would be slowing down and giving yourself a moment to take in the view and catch your breath. like getting outside and finding some wide open space to breathe in the the fresh air and clear the mind. that's when we create space within ourselves and our minds to let new thoughts in. so as i approach each day with the pressure of finding business, getting my business out of the "red" and thinking through new ways of doing that, i often have to remind myself of this very thing. so a few things i look to do break up my own focus once in a while include:

journaling: my coach said to me--journaling or writing things down on paper is not just helpful and important to capture the thought and be able to reflect on it later, but it lets it OUT of your head which allows there to be more room in there for new thoughts to come in.

go outside: even if you don't have time or energy to exercise or workout, just get up from your desk or computer and walk outside. let the spring sun shine on your face and breathe in some fresh air. and especially if you're someone who rarely slows down, take 15-30 minutes and just see what happens. even if you only walk around the block, it's better than nothing and it will help.

exercise: yoga, walking, running, swimming, biking, hiking (as seen here) or any or all of the above. just break up that pattern and work your body--it will in turn work your mind.

talk it out: sometimes you can't find the clarity of where you're even stuck until you start talking yourself though it. the power of hearing your words said aloud and even having someone say back to you how they are hearing it can be enlightening. so decide who that person is that can hold the space and listen as you work your way through it. not someone who's going to want to talk over you, could judge you or who can't focus on you for a good hour--find the person that's able to listen and be empathetic to you as you work through what you need. a coach is great for this :)