Creating Margin in Our Lives

Adapted from “Facts of the Matter” by Dwight Hill, my mentor for 23 years45% of the space in this blog is margin. You wouldn’t read this blog if the print ran to the edges of the computer screen because it would offend your sense of proportion. In similar fashion, our lives also need margin. They need proportion.Margin is the space that once existed between ourselves and our limits. Today we use margin just to get by, to just keep us from the edge of burn out.Having “Margin” in our lives means:

The gap between rest and exhaustion…

The leeway we once had between ourselves and our limits…

Something held in reserve for contingencies or unanticipated situations…

If you are running thin on margin these days, my guess is you are on over-load in at least some of the following areas:

Too many commitments

Too much competition

Too many distractions

Too much debt

Too many expectations

Too much volunteering

Too many toys

Too much self-importance

Maybe the wrong career…….

Here are  seven steps we can take to ensure “Margin” is built into our lives:

• Learn to expect the unexpected. Because most everything takes longer than anticipated, learn to build  margin into your planning, your daily schedule.
• Learn to say no. Contrary to your perception, you are not indispensable.
• Cut down on non-essential activities as they have a way of self-perpetuating; of multiplying.
• Practice simplicity and contentment. Choose to live with less.
• Get less done but do the right things. Assess all your activities as to their support of your life mission, career, family and spiritual growth.
• Put the HP/Cell phone down, on silent. Live in the moment with those around you – your family. Don’t be slave to your HP.
• Get 7-8 hours of sleep. Be rested for the unexpected. Sleep is “Margin” nourishment.
• Think and act like an airline pilot. You don’t want see your airline pilot run to the plane 5 minutes before take-off! Arrive early, be prepared before you “take off” for work and daily activities.

Many of these insights are drawn from the book “Margin” by R. A Swensen.

This book is for you if you yearn for relief from the pressure of overload. Each chapter helps you re-evaluate your priorities, determine the value of rest and simplicity in your life, and see where your real identity really comes from. The benefits can be good health, financial stability, fulfilling relationships, and availability for your life calling and purpose.My hope is that you are having a great week with healthy “Margin!”Michael J GriffinELAvate FounderJohn Maxwell Team FounderAchieve Forum Master Trainer