The pressure to be constantly productive, efficient and on top of everything is higher now than ever before. With endless to-do lists, long working hours, and daily stresses piling up, it can be easy to forget about the importance of margin – the space we leave in our lives to just be.
But taking time for ourselves is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. When we don’t give ourselves margin, we risk burning out, both mentally and physically. We become stressed, exhausted, and prone to anxiety and depression. That’s why prioritising self-care as a value is crucial to avoid overwhelming ourselves to the point of exhaustion.
For some people, finding margin might mean leaving work on time or taking regular breaks throughout the day. For others, it could be taking up a new hobby or making time for exercise. Still others may find that simply scheduling time for rest and relaxation is enough. Whatever form it takes, the key is to be intentional about making room in our lives for things that make us feel good, and that help us recharge.
Of course, finding margin is easier said than done. It can feel like one more thing to add to an already crowded to-do list. But in reality, margin doesn’t have to take up a lot of time. Even just a few minutes of intentional breathing, stretching or mindfulness can make a significant difference in our mental state.
The importance of margin goes beyond individual well-being, too. When we give ourselves space and time to recharge, we’re able to show up more fully for those around us. We become better listeners, better friends and partners, and more effective colleagues. In short, taking time for ourselves doesn’t just benefit us individually, it also has wider implications for the world around us.
In a world that often values productivity over rest and hustle over balance, it’s easy to dismiss the importance of margin. But as counterintuitive as it might seem, prioritising our own well-being and making space for rest can actually make us more effective and successful in the long run. By giving ourselves margin, we set ourselves up for a more sustainable and fulfilling life – and that’s something worth making time for.