Creating Space: A Mindfulness and Recovery Ritual Reflection

Companion to Episode 7 of The Thrive Forward podcast 

Leadership often gets measured by output. The best leaders I know are not just doing more. They are thinking more clearly. They create space, and they protect it. 

In the podcast, I share this moment: 

“Now that you know why space matters and how you operate as a leader, let’s talk about how to actually create it.” 

Two practical strategies I share are: 

1. Scheduling White Space - If it is not scheduled, it does not happen. Block time for deep thinking, strategic planning, or simply stepping back. 

2. Creating Recovery Rituals - Small, repeatable acts that help you reset, reflect, and move forward with clarity. 

Let me take you inside mine. 

Almost every weekend, I walk around Lake Burley Griffin. It is quiet. Early. Often between six and eight in the morning, depending on the weather. I do not listen to anything. I do not check my phone. It is a full stop. On the far side of the lake, near the National Carillon, I pause. There is a bench there. It overlooks the water. The light hits differently. It is where I sit, breathe, and reset. This is where I practise box breathing. A simple way to shift from noise to presence. 

Here is how it works: 

• Breathe in slowly through your nose for 4 counts 

• Hold your breath for 4 counts 

• Exhale gently through your mouth for 4 counts 

• Hold again for 4 counts 

• Repeat for 4 rounds 

You do not need a lake or a bench or a perfect morning, but you do need a moment that is yours. A space to pause and return to yourself. 

For you, it might be a gym session. A walk. A moment in the garden. Whatever grounds you, make it part of your rhythm. Protect it like you would any other meeting or deadline because space is not where leadership stops. It is where real leadership begins. 

I would love to hear what space looks like for you. If this reflection resonated, share your ritual or insight with me on LinkedIn or via Thrive Forward. Let’s normalise mindful leadership that is sustainable, not just successful.  

And before you go, ask yourself this: 

“What would change if you made space a non-negotiable part of your leadership?” 

Thrive Forward Podcast 

This blog expands on Episode 7 of The Thrive Forward Podcast, where Vanessa and I unpack practical strategies for creating space and mindfulness. 

You can listen to the full episode on all major podcast platforms.

Daniel McInerney is an impact coach, experienced mentor and independent advisor. You can book a complimentary Discovery Call or consultation by clicking here.