Creating Space: How You Want to feel

There was a time early in my private practice when I was riding the wave of excitement that comes with building something new. But that excitement was quickly met with a deepening exhaustion. Before long, I found myself longing for a break—to take a breath, to step back, even to step away altogether.

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This feeling was compounded by my role as a caregiver for a loved one—a responsibility I embraced with everything I had. I was determined to ensure they were well cared for, no matter the cost. But doing both—growing a practice and caregiving—led to burnout. The lingering effects of COVID only added to the weight I was carrying. Again, I found myself longing for space—a way out before I crashed.

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That clarity came in the fall of 2022. I was actively seeking ways to slow down, holistically, when I came across Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Depression by Zindel Segal, Mark Williams, and John Teasdale; and The Mindful Path to Self-Compassion by Christopher Germer. These texts introduced me to a concept that shifted everything: the power of creating personal space—both mentally and physically.

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Embracing mindfulness allowed me to cultivate a deeper awareness of my thoughts and emotions, fostering a sense of compassion towards myself. It was in these quiet moments of reflection that I discovered how my mental landscape shaped my experiences. I learned that by establishing personal space, I could create a sanctuary for my mind to rest and rejuvenate.

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From this, I began practicing a simple yet profound idea: “Create your space to look how you want to feel.” I needed room—mentally, emotionally, and physically. So I started there. I redesigned my home office to reflect the feelings I wanted more of—peace, clarity, lightness. After graduating from countless hours of HGTV, revamping my business office, and trying different layouts at home, I finally began to feel the space I had been craving.

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This shift didn’t erase my stress, but it gave me room—to breathe, to respond with intention, to move mindfully through my days. And it’s a practice I now share with my clients. In our work together, I guide them in exploring how to create space for themselves—starting with the physical and expanding into the emotional and mental.

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If you’re finding yourself in need of a shift—in pace, in space, or simply in how you’re feeling—know that you’re not alone. Sometimes, the first step isn’t a dramatic overhaul, but a small, intentional change. Consider how your physical environment might support the emotional and mental space you’re longing for. What can you adjust, clear out, or invite in to help you feel more grounded, more at ease, more like yourself? Creating space, in whatever form that takes, can be a powerful act of care—for your present and your future self.

Rayshaun Johnson, LPC, NCC