I’ve been learning about the concept of having margin in our lives. If you are not familiar with this concept, it’s basically setting boundaries or limits so you can be your best self. For instance, if you are short on cash, limit shopping so you don’t use the last of your money on something unnecessary and end up having no buffer for emergency….this is financial margin. If you are stretched for time with loved ones, and are asked to volunteer for yet another committee, maybe it’s time to say no…this is time margin. Or, if you are emotionally spent and decide to limit interaction with someone who causes you stress… this is emotional margin.
This concept makes a lot of sense because we are anticipating the problem before it occurs. Managing your margin means that you are being proactive, rather than being thrown into crisis mode. We have all been there and crisis mode is not usually a place we strive to land! It is about taking control vs letting factors control us or our environment.
In managing your margin, you allow yourself breathing room and stability. In the beginning it will likely feel strange. You may feel as if you are letting people down or being selfish. Just remember, we can only give people our best, if we take care of us. Self-care is primary in this world of go-go-go. There is a song I love called “Breathe”*. One line says “Chaos calls but all you really need, is to just breathe.”
The holiday season and new year is a good time to assess where you need margin in your life and set boundaries which enable this concept to unfold in 2022. If I can help you with this or any other health challenges you are having, please reach out to me via my website or email. We will set up a free one-hour consult.
Be your best self!
Jackie
*Breathe by Jonny Diaz