Imagine driving on a highway at 105 km/h with another car just 6 inches ahead, moving at the same speed in the same lane. Now, if that car makes even the slightest unexpected move or slows down, what happens? Bang!

When scheduling meetings, planning your day, or even booking a doctor’s appointment after work, it’s essential to leave a buffer. Research suggests adding a 50% buffer is ideal. That sounds like a lot, doesn’t it?

But think of it this way: If you expect a meeting to last an hour, schedule an extra 30 minutes before your next commitment. If you're commuting 30 minutes to meet a client, allow for 45 minutes. This way, there’s no anxiety if you hit a red light or need extra time. And it also gives you time to reach in time and process the setting and environment of the place you are visiting.

For a soon-to-be empty nester, keeping a buffer in your daily schedule can be a game-changer. As your routines shift with your children leaving home, there will be moments when emotions unexpectedly surface or you find yourself reflecting on this transition. Having a buffer between tasks gives you time to process those feelings and avoid rushing from one thing to the next. It allows you to move through your day more mindfully and with less pressure, reducing the "Bang!" of stress or overwhelm. Embracing these gaps in your schedule provides room for personal care, reflection, and adapting to your new role, ensuring smoother transitions in your day and your life.