Finding Peace and Joy: Living in the Gap

In our fast-paced world, filled with constant stimuli and internal chatter, finding moments of stillness can seem like an elusive dream. Yet, nestled between our thoughts lies a space of quiet, a gap where peace, joy, and happiness reside. This space, often overlooked, holds the key to a more fulfilled and present life.

Living in the gap means inhabiting the space between our thoughts, where one ends and another begins. It's about becoming aware of the inner dialogue that shapes our reality and intentionally creating a gap to distinguish it from our true selves.

We all have that incessant voice inside our heads—the one that doubts, criticizes, and fears. It's fueled by years of programming from society, experiences, and our own beliefs. But it's crucial to recognize that we are not defined by these thoughts; we are the observers, not the thoughts themselves.

Creating a gap allows us to silence the noise and choose which thoughts to engage with. It's a practice of mindfulness, of being fully present and aware without judgment. Through meditation and mindfulness, we can learn to quiet the voice and cultivate a more positive internal dialogue.

Meditation serves as a powerful tool in this journey. By focusing on something external, like our breath, we can observe our thoughts without getting entangled in them. Over time, this practice reshapes our brain waves, fostering a state of calm and clarity.

Contrary to common misconceptions, meditation doesn't require hours of daily practice or achieving a completely empty mind. Even just a few minutes a day can yield profound benefits, from reducing stress and anxiety to enhancing focus and emotional regulation.

Incorporating mindfulness into our daily lives is like hygiene for the mind—a necessary practice for overall well-being. It's about making a conscious choice to prioritize our mental health and cultivate a deeper understanding of ourselves.

Yes, it takes practice and commitment, but the rewards are immense. Through mindfulness, we can discover a profound sense of peace and joy that transcends the chaos of everyday life. So, let's embrace the gap, for within it lies the true essence of our being.

I wrote a book, Profit with Presence: The 12 Pillars of Mindful Leadership, which goes in to further detail about this topic and more.

Although the world is currently abuzz with the term “mindfulness,” some believe mindfulness is a fringe activity to be practiced before or after the workday, if at all. Too few business professionals take the time needed to be present and aware throughout the workday, which is counterproductive. Mindfulness is not only a path to personal success, but a sound business strategy.  

My hope is to positively impact the world through infusing more mindfulness into business -- and it starts with each of us individually. Together, we can create a future where mindfulness is deeply embedded in our work culture, leading to greater well-being, productivity, and meaningful success for all.

- Dr Eric Holsapple