Making Space for What Matters
Dear Friends, Creators,
Years ago, I attended a training called Mission Control with a couple of friends who, like me, were committed to personal growth. The training offered many valuable insights, but today, I want to share one that I incorporate into my “Clean Slate to Create” practice.
Simply put, the exercise involves writing down everything you need to do and handle in life—everything.
I know most of us skim through newsletters, but if you’re reading this, I invite you to close your eyes for a few seconds and let yourself think of all the things that are, could be, or should be on your to-do list. Consider the open tabs in your mind, the unfinished tasks, and the things you hope to get done but haven’t scheduled yet.
If you’re sensing that there’s A LOT, you’re right. Now, imagine taking two hours to capture it all. You’d likely realize just how many things are lingering in your mind or on scattered to-do lists—some you may not even look at again if you’re honest with yourself.
When I first did this exercise, I felt overwhelmed. My list included everything from simple daily tasks to grand ambitions like launching my own fashion brand and starring in an Oscar-winning film—where I’d hopefully get to sing, too!
Most of us who participated realized that our to-do lists were as vast as mountains. We could probably keep writing for days if our hand muscles could handle it. But then, we were reminded that when we take our last breath, there will still be things left undone.
At first, this thought was confronting, but then it became clear: since we won’t be able to do everything, we must prioritize and focus on what truly matters.
This exercise isn’t meant to induce panic or make you feel like time is slipping away. Instead, it’s designed to create awareness. If we don’t allocate our time to what we care about, we’ll be left with a long list of “I could’ve, should’ve, would’ve” regrets—burdens that weigh heavily on our shoulders.
We cannot control life, but we can dance with what is and make intentional choices. Time will pass regardless.
Initially, I felt rushed to complete as much as possible. But soon, I realized that slowing down and doing things properly helped me reach a true sense of completion. When something is done—not necessarily perfect, but complete and well-executed—it creates space for something new. Every finished task allows me to close a mental tab.
This also taught me to be selective about which tabs I keep open. Some, I close immediately because, with limited productive hours, I must prioritize what truly matters. Of course, some tasks aren’t enjoyable (I don’t like doctor’s appointments either), but they are necessary to prevent greater burdens down the line.
All of these skills are learnable. People are not born productive. In fact, I constantly work not only on being productive but also on enjoying the process. What helps immensely is having the right tools and skills to make things happen.
Finally, if doing what works feels unnatural and requires immense motivation, encouragement, and willpower, yet you know it’s for something important, there may be an unresolved issue from the past. People who have experienced trauma, health challenges, or significant life changes often need time to heal before they can focus on performance. It’s important to find and honor your own rhythm.
The more I live from my essence rather than my ego, the more respect and space I can hold for others on their journeys. Taking care of our humanity is essential to fully experiencing life.
