The [high] value of white space

When was the last time you stopped and thought about your work, your contribution and the value you offer others? Are you adding value, or simply occupying space? 

Most leaders say taking time for self-reflection and to think is important, if high performance is to be sustained. But many do not follow through. Instead, they remain 'on': making lists, completing tasks, checking emails, and responding to social media feeds—all in the name of getting things done. Some even speak, proudly, of workaholism and busyness. Such behaviour is lauded in many modern societies. But is 'always on' and busyness conducive to high performance? Or is it a delusion? What of personal and professional relationships; of curiosity; of gaining new insights; of becoming a better person?

Allocating uninterrupted time—white space—for reflection, thinking and dreaming is critical if organisational leaders (especially board directors!) are to have any hope of contributing well. 

The idea of dedicated white space was an anathema for me through the first half of my career. But as I got underway with my doctoral research (circa 2012), something changed. Gradually, the guilt I felt when stepping away from my desk when I was stuck subsided: the act of changing neural activity (from sitting staring at a problem, to going for a walk or riding my bike) often had the effect of helping clear the mental block I had been struggling with!

Since completing my doctoral research in 2016, I continued to prioritise white space, as follows:

• Early morning (0530–0700, six days per week), to read inspirational texts, news feeds and topical articles.
• Daily walks, to activate my cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems.
• Evening (a 60-minute block before retiring for the night, at least five nights per week), to read what a close friend calls 'brainy books'—books on philosophy, psychology, neuroscience, human nature, history and trekking, but also the 'great books'. 
• Long-haul flights have become precious white spaces too, because I am left alone to do what you want. I keep a pencil and paper to hand, and record my thoughts (often my best ideas!)

None of this makes me good, or any better than anyone else. However, my dedication to allocating white spaces and holding them sacrosanct has seen me become more curious. My mind seems to have become more malleable too. Hopefully, my contributions have become more valuable as a result—but this is best assessed by others, not me. 

Does the idea of white space resonate for you? If so, would you mind sharing your experiences, so others can benefit from them?