Space Creation Framework

A framework for creating buffer space around important events to handle unexpected challenges and maintain control. Based on personal experience shared during a Black Friday business situation.

Core Concept of Space Creation

• Don't fully book your schedule, especially around critical events
• Create intentional buffer time for unexpected issues
• Plan ahead for potential problems rather than assuming everything will go smoothly

Why Create Space

• Allows flexibility to handle emergencies
• Provides time to:
  • Address unexpected problems
  • Implement new ideas
  • Recover from issues
• Prevents being caught in bad situations due to over-scheduling

Real World Application Example

• Black Friday Business Scenario:
  • Declined hosting Thanksgiving despite family visiting
  • Created space around biggest sales day of year
  • Proved valuable when emergency situations arose
  • Contrasted with COO who didn't create space:
    • Got stuck in airport pickup duty
    • Couldn't access computer during crisis
    • Demonstrated consequences of not having buffer

Implementation Tips

• Identify critical events/periods that need buffer space
• Actively decline commitments that could compromise buffer time
• Create boundaries around important business operations
• Plan for worst-case scenarios
• Prioritize flexibility over convenience

Wisdom Learned

• Space creation is a skill that comes with experience
• Better to have buffer and not need it than need it and not have it
• Creating space is an investment in reducing stress and maintaining control