Meetings, Breaks, and the Art of Finding Space

Why on earth do meetings run back-to-back?!! It’s become a normal part of work culture—but at what cost?

When we cram our schedules, we steal from ourselves: the chance to pause, breathe, and show up fully for the moments that matter. This relentless cycle of back-to-back demands doesn’t just affect our performance—it impacts our well-being, too.

Where Are the Spaces in Your Day?

Here’s something to reflect on: where are the spaces in your week? The little gaps where you can think, reset, or simply sit without expectation?

Creating space isn’t about doing less—it’s about doing things better. When we make time to pause, we reclaim the energy and clarity we need to thrive, whether it’s at work or at home.

Why Do Back-to-Back Meetings Exist?

Back-to-back meetings might feel efficient, but they’re often anything but. Without space to reflect, regroup, or even grab a cup of tea, the quality of our work—and our lives—suffers.

Think about the last time you finished a meeting and had to dive straight into another. Were you fully present for either? Probably not.

And yet, we keep doing it, often because:

• It’s the workplace norm.

• We don’t feel empowered to change the schedule.

• We’re so busy we forget to question whether this is really working.

What Does It Cost Us?

The costs of non-stop scheduling are high:

• Mentally: Reduced focus, creativity, and clarity.

• Emotionally: Increased frustration, irritability, and overwhelm.

• Physically: Fatigue that can linger well beyond the workday.

Over time, these effects accumulate, leaving little room for joy or ease. Even when we try to “switch off,” the constant push often follows us home, affecting our ability to relax, connect, and recharge.

How to Reclaim Space in Your Day

Even if you don’t control your schedule, small shifts can make a big difference. Here are a few ideas to try:

• A One-Minute Reset: Between meetings, take one minute to pause, breathe, and reset. My free One Minute Marke audio can help you create that space—try it here.

• Challenge the Norm: If you can, suggest starting meetings at five past the hour or ending them five minutes early. It’s a small adjustment that can have a big impact.

• Reflect on What Works for You: Are there moments in your week when you feel clear and energised? What’s different about those times? Look for ways to replicate that balance.

Reclaim Your Time and Headspace

Creating space isn’t a luxury—it’s essential. It’s how we show up fully for our work, our relationships, and ourselves.

So, where can you create a little more space in your day this week?

The One Minute Marke

Incorporating brief pauses between meetings can significantly enhance your focus and well-being. To assist with this, consider using my free One Minute Marke audio—a quick, guided exercise designed to help you reset and reclaim your headspace. You can access it here.

P.S. The photo is from my Pacific Northwest road trip - it's the beautiful and very wild Oregon Coast.